Early Pierre Chapo 'R28' Sideboard in Solid Elm and Brass

Pierre Chapo, sideboard, model 'R28', solid elm, France, 1983.

This sideboard is one of the early editions designed by Pierre Chapo, known for his hallmark use of solid elmwood and a commitment to pure and clean design and construction principles. The R28 sideboard marked a departure from Chapo's earlier works. Starting in 1981, Chapo began designing with the aid of computers, culminating in this four-door sideboard, completed after extensive research. The design emphasizes volume through flat, solid-wood surfaces and features a smoked glass panel and brass grips for opening and closing the doors. The lack of strict symmetry and the interplay of different design elements create a dynamic yet balanced piece, reflecting Chapo's vision and talent.

Pierre Chapo (1927-1987) was born in a family of craftsmen and trained as an architect at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Already from a young age, he felt the need to roam the world. He was only twenty-one when he left France in order to spend the next few years traveling through England and Scandinavia. In December of 1951, he was living back in Paris, where he met his future wife, Nicole. Their meeting was the beginning of a lifelong union. Together, the lovebirds travelled through South and North America being captivated by the architectural diversity. Back in France, he and his partner Nicole set up Société Chapo in 1957. Société Chapo was a design workshop and gallery in one where he showed his own creations. However, Nicole also presented her ceramics, and textiles here and they even exhibited other great designers of that period. In 1958, they opened their famous gallery at 14 Boulevard de l'Hopital. Chapo's work originated by means of special commissions that could later be adapted to universal needs. Throughout his career, Chapo combined his interest for contemporary design with his love for traditional craftsmanship. In his designs, he was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's balanced lines, Corbusier's research on proportions and the ideas of Bauhaus. The three principles that motivated Pierre Chapo were 'material, form, and function.' He measured his furniture by means of golden ratio and used elmwood as his preferred material. Unfortunately, Chapo fell ill, and he died in 1987, however, until his last day, he kept on designing and working.

Please note that the item is in good, used condition. The top of the sideboard shows patina and a wear mark, while the legs exhibit signs of wear. Refinishing or restoration is possible before shipping by our experienced craftspeople in our own in-house restoration atelier. With high attention for the original, they make sure every piece contains its value and is ready for the many years to come. We kindly ask you to contact our design experts for further information about the endless possibilities our restoration and upholstery atelier has to offer. Of course, a locally organized restoration is possible as well.

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