Table and Chair from Richard Hutten, the Netherlands, 1990s

Details

Description

Table-Chair designed and produced by Richard Hutten in his own workshop in Rotterdam, The Netherlands 1990. This rare and early … Read more Table-Chair designed and produced by Richard Hutten in his own workshop in Rotterdam, The Netherlands 1990. This rare and early example of the Table-Chair is one of the most iconic designs from the early career of Richard Hutten, made from solid beech wood and plywood. The piece comes from the very first series produced and was acquired directly from Hutten in the early 1990s by the original owners. This playful and minimalistic design captures the spirit of Dutch conceptual design at the time, merging functional form with wit and experimentation. The construction consists of a simple rectilinear frame forming a chair, into which a small loose stool or table is placed. When positioned together, they create a sculptural and intriguing object; when separated, the inner stool can be used independently as a small side table or seating element. The chair is more of a conceptual piece than a practical everyday seat, offering stability mainly when sitting backwards. It’s clear, minimal lines emphasize proportion and geometry while maintaining a strong sense of playfulness. The Table-Chair quickly became one of the most recognizable pieces of 1990s Dutch design, embodying the era’s embrace of clever ideas over ornamentation. Its direct and unembellished construction mirrors the designer’s attitude: furniture as a vehicle for ideas rather than purely for comfort. Richard Hutten is considered one of the leading figures in contemporary Dutch design and a founding member of Droog Design. Often described as a true “chair designer,” Hutten has built an extensive body of work exploring new ways to rethink the act of sitting and the role of furniture in daily life. His designs are known for their clarity, humor, and strong conceptual foundation. His work is represented in major museum collections around the world and continues to shape the discourse of modern furniture design. This Table-Chair stands as a collector’s piece from a pivotal moment in Hutten’s career and in the broader Dutch design movement. It encapsulates both his playful approach and the design energy of the 1990s. Literature; Richard Hutten, work in use, Brigitte Fitoussi, Aaron Betsky, page 158-159. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution See less