Vintage George Nakashima Ottoman With Provenance

Item Details

A vintage custom made George Nakashima ottoman. Made from walnut, this ottoman features a detachable purple velvet upholstered cushion, a square walnut base, and X-shaped legs. It has contrasting joinery details and clean minimalist lines. The underside is marked ‘Metcalf’.

For a related lot see 17DET010-108.

Provenance: The ottoman comes with copies of original drawings, the original invoice on Nakashima letterhead, as well as the initial order letter from Robert Metcalf dated February 20, 1982. Other materials in the group include a copy of the original, handwritten order slip dated March 12, 1982, and an original invoice for re-upholstery work, done by the Nakashima studio.

George Nakashima (1905—1990) was an American woodworker, furniture maker, and architect. One of the leading innovators of 20th-century furniture design, Nakashima used the natural patterns, forms, and even imperfections of wood to create minimalist pieces of beautiful and functional furniture. A hallmark of Nakashima’s work is the patience with which he produced his designs and the perfection that is evident in every part of his furniture. His pieces are highly sought after, imminently collectible. Many of Nakashima’s clients corresponded with him directly on a regular basis. Seller Robert Metcalf kept meticulous records on his collection of Nakashima pieces, including this correspondence. Many of these records and notes are included with the items in this sale, adding even more value to each piece.

For more information on this great designer’s life, work, and legacy please visit http://nakashimafoundation.org/; http://www.nakashimawoodworker.com/.

Condition

- some minor surface wear.

Item #

17DET010-093