$20,000

United States
circa 1954

Modular nine-drawer chest of walnut with a white micarta top, lacquered masonite drawer bottoms and angle-steel pulls and frame. The “Curtainwall” principle applied to furniture, allowing easy extension in either a vertical or horizontal direction. An elegant riff on the Eames ESU, designed by Norman Cherner (along with Matthew Cooper) and manufactured by the Multiflex Corp circa 1954. The present unit has three banks of three drawers; the full-length angled steel pulls contribute to the overall graphic scheme of contrasting stripes. The Studio Group was featured in George Nelson’s Storage book and was a MoMA Good Design selection in 1954. The frame, which disassembles to a large degree, is held together with brass buttons. Cherner famously designed the narrow-waisted Plycraft armchair along with an award-winning furniture line for Konwiser and was the author of the 1953 book Make Your Own Modern Furniture. Along with a sliding door cabinet and a double-tall unit from the same source, available separately, the only examples of these configurations I have seen.

Condition
The wood is refinished and the angled steel elements are repainted. Micarta top is original, with some scratching and variegation. Wear consistent with age and use.

Measurements
Height: 29 in.
Width/length: 90 in.
Depth: 18 in.

Specifications
Number of items: 1
Materials/techniques: Walnut, micarta, lacquered masonite