1930's Modernist Tubular Side Table model R 7 by Slezak

This is a modernist side table originally designed and produced in the 1930’s. Due to its smaller size, the table was meant to be used as either a stand for a radio and for magazines in the lower tabletop or alternatively as a drinks cabinet. Its design perfectly embodies the radical new concept of the furniture made of tubular steel which was first developed in the 1920’s by avant-garde architects (particularly by marcel breuer and mart stam) around the legendary bauhaus school of design. The table consists of two tabletops in different heights that are effortlessly held by a tubular steel frame. The upper red painted wooden part is supported from just underneath while the bottom part flawlessly fits inside the frame. This all is done with perfectly balanced proportions. The steel legs are slightly curved on the top with wooden stops on the bottom. The table doesn’t have any labels or marks of the producer but it’s design is identical to slezak side/radio tables such as type r7 or r5 found in company’s catalogue from the 1930’s. Before the ww2, the slezak company was one of the leading czech producers of tubular steel furniture. They were offering different variations of modernist tubular furniture from chairs, tables to beds and wardrobes. Some of these pieces were designed in collaboration with external architects, some were designed by robert slezak itself but they also produced a few models under a licence from the thonet company. The side table is in good vintage condition. Both the chrome tubular steel frame and the wooden parts show some minor patina and wear gained by its use over the years.