Model 144 Cubes by Ko Verzuu for Ado, Netherlands, 1955, Set of 7

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A wonderful and highly graphic set of seven nesting cubes, model 144, designed by ko verzuu for ado in 1955. … Read more A wonderful and highly graphic set of seven nesting cubes, model 144, designed by ko verzuu for ado in 1955. Made entirely from wood, the seven hollow cubes gradually increase in size and are painted in black, yellow, red, cream, blue, green and yellow. When nested together, the complete set forms a single compact cube, while individually the elements can be stacked and arranged into an almost architectural composition. The original ado catalogue describes model 144 as a seven-piece set, with cubes ranging from approximately 2.5 to 14.5 cm and reaching a total height of 59 cm when stacked. Particularly special is the smallest black cube, which still retains its original circular metal ado emblem. Such small individual elements are easily lost, making the survival of the complete seven-piece set especially appealing. The strong geometry and uncompromising use of color clearly reflect the influence of de stijl and the work of gerrit rietveld. Verzuu translated these principles into toys that encouraged children to experiment freely with scale, balance, color and composition. The visible layered plywood edges provide an additional graphic quality and beautifully contrast with the colored surfaces. Ado, short for arbeid door onvolwaardigen, was established in 1925 as part of the berg en bosch tuberculosis sanatorium in apeldoorn. The toys were initially produced by recovering patients as occupational therapy. Ko verzuu, who led the workshop and designed most of its toys, was strongly influenced by the modernist ideas of de stijl and particularly by gerrit rietveld. This resulted in a remarkable collection of wooden toys characterized by elementary forms, functional construction and bold primary colors. Today, ado toys are regarded as important examples of dutch modernist design and are represented in museum and private collections. This example remains in beautiful original condition with age-related wear and patina, retaining all seven cubes and, importantly, the original ado metal emblem on the smallest cube. 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



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