Busquets Case

In its essence, Art Noveau was a reaction to the academic art of the 19th Century. Named for Siegfried Bings Maison de lArt Nouveau gallery and shop in Paris, it was inspired by natural forms and structures, particularly the curved lines of plants and flowers. It shaped art, architecture and applied art, and was big till around 1910, when it was gazumped by Art Deco.

Among the leading proponents of Art Noveau furniture was the Catalan Joan Busquets. Trained in Barcelona at the Llotja School and in his familys upholstery and decorating workshop, Busquets took up the international Art Nouveau style just before 1900. For ten years he was one of the most prolific cabinetmakers of Catalan Art Nouveau, before abandoning it to reproduce styles from the past.

On Friday, December 2, Rago will offer 11 lots by or attributed to the great Spanish craftsman in their Remix: Timeless Style sale. One of the real highlights is sure to be Lot 573 (above) - a stunning pair of Palacio Guell armchairs. Is it really so hard to picture yourself kicking back in these with a freshly brewed espresso?   

From chandeliers to mirrors, this sale offers a wide range of Busquets classics. Collectors are sure to take a keen interest in Lot 595 - a 1904 giltwood paint-decorated planter with square and rectangular openings.

If you had to pick the most eye-catching piece in the sale you might well come up with Lot 590 - a stunning Palacio Guell settee. With its giltwood frame, quality upholstered finish, mirror glass and marble work, its a long way from anything youre likely to find at Ikea...

If youre looking for a better quality mirror to lift your appearance then be sure to circle these two pieces in the catalog. Lot 602 - a beautifully crafted giltwood mirror and console, and Lot 618 - an ornate giltwood mirror.

Theres nothing understated about Lot 609! This tiered giltwood table with marble tops and scrolled decoration could be just the thing to take your hallway to the level of a marble table. 

Ragos Remix: Timeless Style sale is set down for Friday, December 2 and contains 289 expertly curated lots. Look now at the full catalog.