Adrian Pearsall Brutalist Hanging Disc Bar for Craft Associates
Piece: Brutalist Hanging Disc Bar (also known as "Sculptura" Wall Bar or Disc Dry Bar) Designer/Creator: Adrian Pearsall (American, 1925-2011) for Craft Associates Country of Origin: United States Date of Manufacture: Circa 1960s-1970s
Standard Dimensions:
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Outer Diameter: 48 inches (121.92 cm) – creating a large visual profile.
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Overall Depth: 12.75 to 14 inches (32.39 cm to 35.56 cm).
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Internal Cabinet Box (Approximate): 21–24 inches wide, 34 inches high, and 14 inches deep.
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Internal Shelving: Features two adjustable shelves, typically 12 inches deep and 20 inches wide.
Technical Specifications:
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Construction: The piece is built with a sturdy wood frame.
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Exterior Case: The main cabinet is often ebonized (blackened) wood.
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Exterior Finish (Doors): The signature Brutalist doors are made of sculpted bronzed resin over wood, creating a metallic, high-texture, abstract appearance. This resin work often features intricate details and an "H.R. Geiger-esque" quality, catching the light dramatically. The design is inspired by Paul Evans' sculpted bronze series, specifically his PE-122 disc bar.
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Interior Features: The hinged doors conceal a functional bar cabinet. It typically reveals a mirrored or polished metal (often chrome sheet metal or Mylar) back and bisected compartments for bottle and glassware storage. It includes two adjustable/removable shelves.
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Functionality: Designed as a compact, wall-mounted dry bar.
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Installation: The unit is designed to hang using a French cleat system or a custom wood wall mount cleat to support its significant weight. Original mounting hardware is sometimes included.
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Style: Mid-Century Modern, Brutalist, Atomic Age. This piece is a prime example of Pearsall's flamboyant, eye-catching styles and his ability to combine art and function.
Provenance/Additional Details:
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Manufacturer: Produced by Craft Associates, founded by Adrian Pearsall in 1952. Pearsall sold Craft Associates to Lane Furniture in 1968, but his designs continued to be produced into the late 1970s.
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Design Line: Often part of Pearsall's "Sculptura" collection.
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Condition: As a vintage piece, wear consistent with age and use is expected. Minor scuffs, dings, or some paint loss on the resin (particularly if bronzed) can occur, but overall, well-preserved pieces are available. The interior mirrored/metal backing can show some minor imperfections.
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Significance: This hanging disc bar is an increasingly rare and highly sought-after piece from Adrian Pearsall's Brutalist collection. Its monumental size, unique sculptural doors, and hidden functionality make it a striking conversation piece and a focal point in any mid-century modern or contemporary interior. It offers the dramatic impact of Paul Evans' work at a more accessible price point.