Jansen Furniture (20th Century Decorators) (20th Century Decorators) (20th Century...

Reader Reviews
As a companion to Mr Abbott's previous book JANSEN which gives a wonderful overview of what is probably the most influential design firm of the 20th century, this book JANSEN FURNITURE provides an extensive catalog of the custom furniture produced by the company from about 1905 through the 1980s. Along with exact reproductions of 18th and 19th century antiques, there are extraordinary inventive adaptations of historic models for modern use. In addition to the classic French 18th century styles, all the trends from the late 19th century to mid-20th century are represented. Although there is some descriptive text, the majority of the book is devoted to images of the furnishings with hundreds of photos and drawings in both black & white and color showing the pieces either in isolation or in the finished setting. Chapters are "Historical Seating" which includes canapes, banquettes, sofas, a Roman-style daybed, and an incredibly chic Art Moderne Egyptian-inspired child's high chair in addition to countless other types of chairs; "Modern Seating"; "Historical Tables" which includes consoles as well as dining tables; "Modern Tables" which also includes bureau plats as well as the famous folding dining table of gunmetal steel and ormolu; "Case Furniture" which includes secretaires, bookcases, commodes, and the famous wardrobe for Jackie Kennedy's White House Dressing Room; "Occasional Tables" including card tables, low cocktail tables and the much-copied petite telephone table on casters; "Lighting"; "Metal Work"; and "Upholstered Pieces and Draperies" which also includes carpets. Clients as diverse as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, President and Mrs John F Kennedy, CBS founder William and Babe Paley, the Cuban Countess de Revilla de Camargo, and the Shah and Shabanou of Iran, clearly they all appreciated truely great style and had the financial means to express it. This book is a wonderful reference resource for all interested in the history of interior design.


Back To Top