Organic Oak Coffee Table with Three Legs, Europe ca 1950s (sold)
Organic Oak Coffee Table with Three Legs, Europe ca 1950s (sold)
In most European mid-century design, there was an early emphasis on wood as it connected everyday objects, such as furniture to nature. This rustic, solid oak coffee table is a perfect example of this sentiment, and the visual benefits of an understated, organic design.
Organic design can successfully blur the lines between the “man-made” and the natural environment. As this low coffee table shows, this is achieved by leaving the focus on the material without altering it too much. The beautiful qualities of the oak remain the defining aesthetic feature. The mid-century modern design movement represented a break with the traditional past, rejecting the pseudo-historical use of ornamentation. In comparison, furniture of the era is generally more pared-down and uncluttered with unnecessary decoration. Taking cues from nature, this coffee table has a strong elemental feel to it, which is a result of its thick round tabletop and sturdy legs. The simple design serves the purpose of showing the understated beauty of natural materials and their endless possibilities under the hands of an expert craftsman. Furthermore, oak is an especially durable hardwood that is extremely multi-faceted with a beautiful grain and texture as seen on the wide tabletop. The cracks elevate the rustic look, while the height perfectly balances out the thickness of the wood.
The organic style is a main characteristic of mid-century modern design, however, it is a timeless aesthetic that only elevates its surroundings. This coffee table eschews flourishes or embellishments for its clean lines and natural textures that highlights the natural pattern of the oak.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some cracks and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
37 in ⌀ x 17.32 in H
94 cm ⌀ x 44 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 40,000 - 50,000 usd / eur
This peculiar “T22” table model is also referred to as the “Eye”. While the name needs no further explanation, the ingenious design certainly does. Pierre Chapo always paired his creative and elegant designs with impeccable craftsmanship that gained him worldwide fame and love.
The “T22” is formed by two arcs, each resting on three cylindrical leg and a central oval module attached to one of the arcs by a sliding system. Placed together, the design forms an “eye”. Not a lot of designs receive a nickname by which they are immediately recognised, but this table is one of those. With its distinctive structure, it epitomises Chapo's research for new systems of joinery, in which the material and the design would be the lead factors in achieving stability, durability, and of course, an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Here, the smaller middle module can be adjusted or removed freely, allowing the table’s modules to be arranged in a variety of ways, for example, it can also be arranged to form a long undulating console. The immense functionality is accompanied by Chapo’s precise joinery techniques and woodworking. Pierre Chapo worked largely in elm wood and has a couple of signature design elements like the visible spline joint and the cylindrical legs as seen here as well. The solid elm has a stunning grain and various patterns that especially stand out on the curvatures of the table.
Chapo’s organic approach to arts and crafts and both designers resisted the stark industrial look that was dominant in the post-war period under the influence of socialism. This coffee table is undoubtedly an emblematic model of post-war French decorative arts and design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks. The elm wood has a beautiful patina. Due to the nature and age of the material, the item may have some additional scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
69.48 in W x 51.18 in D x 12.99 in H
176.5 cm W x 130 cm D x 33 cm H
About the designer:
Pierre Chapo, born in Paris in July 1927, was initially interested in becoming a professional painter. However, after a chance meeting with a shipbuilder who introduced him to wood and wood crafts, Chapo changed his focus and decided to study architectural studies at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
After graduation, Chapo and his wife, the sculptor, and painter Nicole Lormier, started to travel extensively through Scandinavia and Central America. Among the many places the couple visited was the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright in Taliesin West. A visit that had a lasting influence on Chapo’s future work and designs. Read more about Pierre Chapo. ~H.