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French Surrealist Wrought Iron Étagère, 1950s

$4,800.00

This 1950s French wrought iron and glass étagère is a study in line and rhythm, where structure becomes ornament through repetition and gesture. Light in presence yet grounded in material, the piece reflects a period in which functional forms were elevated through the hand of the artisan.

The frame is hand-welded in iron, its construction evident in the slight irregularities that trace each joint and curve. Delicate scrolls and looping elements introduce a sense of movement, softening the geometry of the three-tiered form. These gestures are not purely decorative; they articulate the structure itself, allowing the eye to follow the path of the metal as it rises and supports each glass shelf.

The iron carries a natural patina, subtly worn and darkened over time, lending depth and warmth to the linear composition. In contrast, the glass shelves rest lightly within the frame, offering clarity and openness, planes of stillness set against the expressive quality of the ironwork.

Marked “SKS,” the piece speaks to the tradition of small French workshops and regional ateliers, where furniture was often produced outside large-scale manufacture. Such marks are less about authorship than about origin, evidence of a local hand, a fabricator working within a shared language of craft. 

The result is an object that feels both personal and enduring, where function is inseparable from the trace of its making.

DIMENSIONS: 28.5"W x 27.75"D x 54.5"H

ADDITIONAL DIMENSIONS: Height to Each Shelf: 28"H; 10"H; 17.25"H

ORIGIN: France

PERIOD: 1950s

MATERIALS: Iron,Glass

CONDITION: In very good vintage condition, with a time-earned patina to the iron frame. Light scuffs and scratches to the glass shelves, consistent with age and use. One small chip at a corner—present but unobtrusive, and not detracting from the piece’s overall presentation.

Item Location

This item is located in our warehouse.

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Shipping, Delivery, and Pick Up

This item ships via White Glove Delivery

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We provide:

  • Local Pickup at our Chicago Showroom
  • Local White Glove Delivery in the Chicago - Land and Surrounding Area
  • Nationwide White Glove Delivery
  • Professional Packaging UPS Shipping of Small and Medium Sized Items
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Returns

All Sales Are Final. If you have any hesitation prior to purchase or would like more details, we would love to share more photos and answer any questions!  South Loop Loft neither assumes nor offers any warranty on vintage, or refinished/reupholstered items after items leave our showroom. View our full policy here.

Questions?
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French Surrealist Wrought Iron Étagère, 1950s

This 1950s French wrought iron and glass étagère is a study in line and rhythm, where structure becomes ornament through repetition and gesture. Light in presence yet grounded in material, the piece reflects a period in which functional forms were elevated through the hand of the artisan.

The frame is hand-welded in iron, its construction evident in the slight irregularities that trace each joint and curve. Delicate scrolls and looping elements introduce a sense of movement, softening the geometry of the three-tiered form. These gestures are not purely decorative; they articulate the structure itself, allowing the eye to follow the path of the metal as it rises and supports each glass shelf.

The iron carries a natural patina, subtly worn and darkened over time, lending depth and warmth to the linear composition. In contrast, the glass shelves rest lightly within the frame, offering clarity and openness, planes of stillness set against the expressive quality of the ironwork.

Marked “SKS,” the piece speaks to the tradition of small French workshops and regional ateliers, where furniture was often produced outside large-scale manufacture. Such marks are less about authorship than about origin, evidence of a local hand, a fabricator working within a shared language of craft. 

The result is an object that feels both personal and enduring, where function is inseparable from the trace of its making.

Dimensions
Width: 28.5"
Depth: 27.75"
Height: 54.5"
Additional Dimensions: Height to Each Shelf: 28"H; 10"H; 17.25"H
Origin: France
Period: 1950s
Materials: Iron,Glass
Condition
In very good vintage condition, with a time-earned patina to the iron frame. Light scuffs and scratches to the glass shelves, consistent with age and use. One small chip at a corner—present but unobtrusive, and not detracting from the piece’s overall presentation.

685 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642 | southlooploft.com | (312) 291-8479