George Nakashima 1946
Introduced in 1946, the Splay Leg table is a wonderful example of George Nakashima’s ability to synthesize traditional influences and modern simplicity. Featuring low-sheen finishes that amplify the natural grain, the table epitomizes Nakashima’s sensitivity to nature and his legendary craftsmanship.
Mixing Eastern and Western aesthetics, traditional and modern vocabularies, George Nakashima’s work defies typical categorization. He is one of the most recognized and celebrated craftsmen of the 20th century, known primarily for his handmade furniture and sensitivity to material.
In the early 1940s, Hans and Florence Knoll met Nakashima and, impressed by the simple elegance of his aesthetic, added a chair and three tables of his design to the Knoll catalog. The early orders were made in Nakashima’s own studio, before production was moved to East Greenville. The line was discontinued in 1955 when Nakashima opted to produce and market all of his designs himself.
In collaboration with George Nakashima’s daughter Mira and George Nakashima Studios, KnollStudio reintroduced the Splay-Leg table in 2008.
One of the most recognized furniture designers and makers of the 20th century, George Nakashima is celebrated for his traditionally-inspired designs and legendary craftsmanship. A major figure in the American craft movement, his furniture is recognized for its simplicity and for the careful attention to material qualities.