Early Pierre Chapo Dining Table Model 'Aban T35B' in Solid Elm

Pierre Chapo, dining table 'Aban T35B', elm, France, 1960s

This small dining or writing table in solid elm is designed by master woodworker Pierre Chapo. The restrained design as well as the use of solid elm wood characterizes the work of Chapo. This table is a hard to find example of this model. Due age and use, an absolute brilliant patina has formed on the top and base. Therefore, the table gets an even more characteristic and vibrant appearance. The interesting base of the table is built with just four legs with angled edges to provide a stable, dynamic construction. It gives the solid table a unique, airy expression. The well sized table has a thick top with an angled edge, all well-proportioned.

Pierre Chapo (1927-1987) was born in a family of craftsmen and trained as an architect in Paris. After spending many years traveling through South and North America, he and his partner Nicole set up Société Chapo, an architectural research consultancy and interior design firm. In 1958, they opened their famous gallery at 14 Boulevard de l'Hopital. Chapo's work originated by means of special commissions that could later be adapted to universal needs. Chapo was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's balanced lines, Corbusier's research on proportions and Bauhaus. Société Chapo was a design workshop and gallery in one where Nicole presented ceramics, textiles and other design by the great designers of the day. The three principles that motivated Pierre Chapo were 'material, form, and function.' He measured his furniture by means of golden ratio and used elmwood as his preferred material.