Highboard Cabinet in Rio Rosewood by Oswald Vermaercke, Belgium — 1960

Exceptional Highboard storage cabinet (tall sideboard) designed in the 1960s by the renowned Belgian designer Oswald Vermaercker. This centrepiece perfectly embodies the golden age of Belgian modernist design and the Scandinavian refinement that strongly influenced Belgian creation during the mid-twentieth century.

Quality of Materials and Woodwork:
This piece is distinguished by the use of a Rio rosewood (Brazilian Rosewood) veneer of remarkable quality. The grain of the wood, dark, contrasting and deeply expressive, has been meticulously selected and applied in “book-matched” fashion  on the doors and the top. The flame-like patterns of the rosewood give this piece a unique sculptural presence and a highly decorative dimension.

Design and Features:

The cabinet presents a superb geometric façade divided into two distinct sections:

• Upper section: Opens by two hinged doors onto a fitted interior, comprising shelves and removable vertical dividers, ideal for use as a bar or writing cabinet.

• Lower section: Fitted with two sliding doors that optimise space, revealing wide adjustable storage shelves.

The signature detail lies in its handles: magnificent rectangular finger pulls, sculpted in relief directly into the mass of the wood, typical of Oswald Vermaercke’s craftsmanship. The whole rests on a slender, tapered sledge base, which lends an impression of airy lightness elegantly contrasting with the robustness of the cabinet’s body.

This piece is in excellent original condition. The original varnish has retained all its lustre, revealing the superb natural, warm patina of the rosewood. Perfectly sound and stable structure. The doors and runners operate smoothly. Few minimal traces of use consistent with its age. Excellent condition, very fine patina.

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