Pair of Mid-Century Square Garden Planters, Attributed to Willy Guhl - 14¼" x 17" x 17"

This pair of fiber-cement garden planters dates from the second half of the 20th century and reflects the functionalist design vocabulary associated with Swiss designer Willy Guhl. Each has a square form with gently tapered sides, pronounced vertical ribbing and integrated handle channels within the substantial upper rim. Their restrained geometry gives them a distinctly architectural, almost Brutalist character. The pale surfaces have weathered naturally outdoors, with staining, areas of discoloration, traces of rust-colored deposits creating a softly layered patina. Both are pierced for drainage. Used as a pair, the planters bring cohesion and rhythm to a terrace, courtyard or garden entrance, while their simple geometry gives them a strong architectural quality. Fiber cement was particularly well suited to this type of mid-century garden design, combining durability and weather resistance with a relative lightness compared with stone or concrete, and allowing clean, precise forms to be produced. Their generous planting capacity accommodates shrubs, grasses or small trees, and their restrained design works equally well in contemporary and more traditional surroundings. As with many fiber-cement pieces of this period, the material may contain asbestos; we therefore recommend outdoor use and advise against sanding, drilling or otherwise altering the surfaces.