Teak Burl Wood Coffee Table, Europe 1970 (sold)














Teak Burl Wood Coffee Table, Europe 1970 (sold)
Inspired by the beauty of the natural root form, this organic teak coffee table is handcrafted from one piece of teak root. The root is painstakingly unearthed. The surface is sanded and polished while preserving the material’s gorgeous, original qualities.
Burl wood furniture is one of those design moments that seems to last forever—and with good reason. Popularized in the Art Deco and Hollywood Regency eras (and again in the 1970s), burl wood is having a major resurgence in modern interior design. This beautiful coffee table is a stunning example of nature's artistry, showcasing the inherent beauty of wood in its organic state. The rounded and freely curving shape of the design resembles the natural form of tree roots and branches, creating an eye-catching design. At the same time, the skilled craftsmanship is evident in every detail of this piece. The smooth and polished finish enhances the natural beauty of the wood, without being overly showy. The finish adds a touch of sophistication and durability to the aesthetic, ensuring it will stand the test of time. This piece exudes a sense of harmony and balance, as if it was meant to be a part of the surrounding environment. The use of especially characteristic, textured pieces of wood for the lower structure adds a lot of personality, especially when viewed from the sides. From most angles, this table could easily be mistaken for a sculpture with an elemental impression. The use of wood, without the addition of paints or stains, assures a timeless and enduring quality. The unique features such as the grain patterns, knots, and texture are proudly displayed, adding to the charm and authenticity.
As nature does not mass produce identically, this piece is truly one of a kind, with intense visual qualities, therefore it cannot be reproduced. This teak coffee table’s unique shape and natural aesthetics make it a statement piece, sure to be a focal point in any space, whether it's placed in a garden, patio, or in an interior setting.
SOLD
Condition:
In vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and cracks due to the wood’s natural qualities.
Dimensions:
39.17 in W x 33.85 in D x 18.11 in H
99.5 cm W x 86 cm D x 46 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.