In the Style of Isamu Noguchi.

Dining Table in the style of Isamu Noguchi

In the upcoming Wright Auction sale “Design” slated for December 14, 2017 in Chicago, is an amazing sculptural dining table possibly by Isamu Noguchi Lot #131.  This extraordinary dining table of solid Rosewood, Walnut and Copper is an unsolved mystery and lacks a direct attribution to the famous mid-century sculptor.  The design of the table is exactly the same as one Noguchi created for one of his most important clients Mr & Mrs. Samuel Dretzin summer house in Chappaqua, NY. in 1948. The important differences between the original Dretizen table and the one offered by Wright Auctions is the grain direction of the trapezoid top and the butterfly joinery inlayed into the edge.  Both pieces had the copper planter inset into the top that can be removed and fitted with a wood cover.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The original table as seen in the photograph of the Dretzin Residence from 1951 clearly shows the original table with the grain running the length of the top. The edge detail is plain with no visible detail. The whereabouts of both the Dretzin Table and the amazing Cloud chandelier designed by Noguchi hanging above it are not known.  Only adding to the mystery!

The dovetail key in the edge of the top is really interesting because it is such a cabinetmakers detail and not very reminiscent of Nouchi work in its style.  I wonder if the detail is hiding a tongue and groove or a spline used to join the tops together. The single table top in solid Rosewood at over 10ft in width would be really expanding and contracting during the changes in seasons.

The sub top construction is extraordinary in its conception and execution. It is both architectural and boat like in the same breath.