Circa 1960 | Ceramic, metal

This piece presents a striking statement that fuses Brutalism and Modernism. Belgian designer, Jules Dewaele, created this vibrant ceramic table at his workshop Pia Manu (“a creative hand”). Dewaele had begun the 1960s working at Rogier Vandeweghe’s Amphora atelier near Bruges, Belgium, experimenting with innovative glazing treatments and firing techniques. The results demonstrate the success of his efforts. This table’s ceramic tiles, in both high-gloss and matte finishes — each an exquisite work of art — are edged with rough volcanic crusts for a Brutalist touch.