An illuminating coffee table by Henri Fernandez, France, circa 1970
An illuminating coffee table by Henri Fernandez, France, circa 1970
A rare and sculptural illuminating coffee table by Henri Fernandez, France, dating to circa 1970. This striking piece exemplifies the artist’s distinctive fusion of functional design and naturalistic, almost surreal forms, with a strong emphasis on texture and material.
The table is centred around a dramatic gilt-metal insect form, rendered with expressive detail and an almost brutalist sensibility. The body is richly textured with a patinated surface, while the legs and antennae extend outward to support a circular glass top, creating a sense of movement and tension within the composition. The combination of organic form and metallic finish is characteristic of Fernandez’s work, blurring the line between furniture and sculpture.
Conceived as an illuminating table, the internal light source enhances the presence of the central form, casting subtle reflections and shadows through the glass top and across the surrounding space. This interplay of light and structure adds both atmosphere and visual intrigue, making the piece as much a lighting feature as a table.
The contrast between the warm gilt tones and the cool transparency of the glass top further emphasises the sculptural quality of the design, while the handcrafted nature of the metalwork lends each element a unique and tactile quality.
Condition is good overall, with surface wear consistent with age and use, including areas of patination, minor rubbing to the gilt finish, and light marks to the glass. The electrical elements have not been tested and may require checking. Please refer to the photographs.
Dimensions of the structure: 33cm high, 74cm wide, 40cm deep
Dimensions of the glass: 1cm high, 135cm wide, 59cm deep