Japanese Bent Plywood T-2001 Coffee Table by Saburo Inui for Tendo Mokko, 1960s

Details

Description

A vintage japanese mid-century modern t-2001 low coffee table in moulded plywood, designed by saburo inui for tendo mokko and … Read more A vintage japanese mid-century modern t-2001 low coffee table in moulded plywood, designed by saburo inui for tendo mokko and produced in japan, estimated from the 1960s. Designed around inui’s 1959 low-table concept, this compact square table is a particularly refined example of post-war japanese modernism, combining tendo mokko’s pioneering bent-plywood construction with an exceptionally clean, flowing silhouette. The original tendo mokko co., ltd. Made in japan and good design labels remain underneath.

designer: saburo inui
maker: tendo mokko
model: t-2001 / inui table
origin: japan
period: 1960s
style: japanese modern / mid-century modern
materials: moulded and laminated plywood, likely beech veneer
dimensions: 65 w × 65 d × 40 h cm (25.6 w × 25.6 d × 15.7 h in)
marked: yes, original tendo mokko co., ltd. Made in japan and good design labels underneath

the table is defined by a beautifully continuous relationship between its square top and four curved corner legs. Rather than appearing as separate supports, the moulded plywood legs sweep directly downward from the tabletop, giving the whole piece a remarkably fluid, almost folded appearance. Subtle changes in grain direction at each corner reveal the construction while becoming a decorative detail in their own right. Rounded edges, slender proportions and the warm patina of the wood keep the design visually light, while the precision of the corner joints gives it a quietly architectural quality.

saburo inui was an engineer closely associated with the development of tendo mokko’s moulded-plywood techniques. Tendo mokko identifies a low table designed by inui in 1959 as the origin of this table form and describes its defining construction as moulded-plywood legs connected directly to the tabletop, with the corners meticulously hand-finished to create an uninterrupted transition.

condition
good vintage condition with signs of age and use consistent with its period. The tabletop shows light scratches, small marks, dark specks and areas of surface wear throughout, with some minor edge wear and small nicks to the perimeter. There are subtle tonal variations and patina across the wood, particularly around the corners and edges. The moulded plywood construction remains visually well preserved and the table presents well overall. Both original manufacturer and good design labels remain underneath. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
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