French Molded Cement Desk After Jean-Charles Moreux, 1950s
This is one of those pieces where the story behind it makes the design even more interesting.
Dating to the 1940s-1950s, the desk comes from the Vicat family, whose history is closely tied to the development of modern cement in France. Louis Vicat pioneered the study of hydraulic binders in the early 19th century, laying important groundwork for the artificial cements that followed
This desk was used as the director’s desk at the Vicat company headquarters in L’Isle-d’Abeau, near Lyon, and remained with the founder’s family. Molded entirely in cement, the design is based on work by French architect Jean-Charles Moreux.
A period drawing by Moreux from circa 1950 documents his studies for stone or marble tables, including variations on the twisted supports seen here. Four substantial spiral columns rise from softly beveled plinth bases to support the curved top, whose sweeping cutout creates a generous working area. A half-bullnose edge follows the perimeter, softening the mass of the cement and emphasizing the unusual shape.
There’s something particularly fitting about a desk made from the material so closely connected to the family who owned it. Its weight, scale, and construction give it an almost architectural quality, while the twisted columns and rounded edges make it feel far more expressive than you might expect from cement.
A rare piece with exceptional provenance and a direct connection between material, design, and history.
DIMENSIONS: 82.75"W x 38"D x 30.5"H
ORIGIN: France
PERIOD: 1950s
MATERIALS: Cement
CONDITION:
To view items in our showroom, visit us Monday - Friday 10-6pm and Saturday 11-5pm. No appointment is needed. See more information on our Showroom location and hours here. Virtual viewings available.
Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes south of our showroom. To view this item, please schedule an appointment with us here. Virtual viewings available.
White Glove Delivery
Our White Glove service includes delivery inside the home (including one flight of stairs). Once the shippers are in your region, they will contact you beforehand to provide the delivery day and time window. Standard lead time is 3-5 weeks.
Ensure a clear path and be available to sign for the delivery. The team cannot move existing furniture. Rural deliveries may experience longer wait times due to limited routing. Alert us if there are additional stairs, COI requirements or other unique circumstances.
Domestic Shipping
In-stock inventory ships via UPS, USPS, or FedEx within 5-10 business days (excluding holidays). Rates are calculated based on the full order value, size and region.
International Shipping
International orders require a custom quote. Shipping costs are not included in the purchase price and will not populate at checkout. Please contact us directly for pricing.
View our shipping policies here.
Local Delivery: If your delivery address is within a 20 mile radius of Chicago, 60642, Local Delivery charges will apply at checkout.
Local Pickup: Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your pickup, so our team can have your purchase ready.
