kast, behorend bij een bank c. 1923

Curator: Standing before us is a rather fascinating piece of furniture currently residing in the Rijksmuseum. It's a "kast, behorend bij een bank," which translates to "cabinet belonging to a settee," created around 1923. Its maker? E.G.C. Schubad. Editor: Immediately, I feel a sense of ordered calm looking at this cabinet. The geometric shapes, the wood grain...it’s so... grounded, but also, slightly mysterious because of its functionality. Curator: Yes, the wood construction and Art Deco style speak volumes about the period. It’s interesting how the carving and joinery highlight the materiality. You see the visible labor. How the separate wooden elements construct the furniture! Editor: It feels like a fortress for thoughts, a quiet corner made solid. But then, knowing it’s part of a bank settee introduces a lovely tension. Curator: The interplay between public and private is key. Art Deco, especially in functional objects, often aimed to elevate the everyday. By using the form of architecture, it blurs the boundary between decorative art and practicality. Editor: Right, and look at how that small, almost secretive window in the door! The piece teases you – hinting at contents unseen, precious maybe. This era seemed to trust that beauty and utility could live as equals. I find it refreshing to be honest! Curator: Exactly, by studying Schubad’s choices regarding wood, construction, and geometric elements, we learn about design ideals of a specific moment, questioning assumptions around artistic production. This piece elevates function through craftsmanship. Editor: For me, the success of this piece lies in the way it manages to be solid and sensible, but with an aura of wonder! This work is an assertion that even in storage, art can reside and flourish! Curator: Indeed. The details invite contemplation, the overall form communicates balance and order. It stands as a quiet yet firm statement about its time.