FUR-016 Nakashima-Style Pair of Naturalistic Teak Side Tables, Convertible to Single Coffee Table, Matched Grain, Dutchman Dovetail, MCM

A rare and beautifully conceived pair of Mid-Century Modern teak side tables in the manner of George Nakashima — unmarked, but exhibiting all the hallmarks of the American Studio furniture tradition that Nakashima pioneered: natural-edge teak slabs, carefully matched wood grains, and a Dutchman dovetail repair, the very joinery technique Nakashima made iconic.

What makes this pair exceptional is its convertible design: the two tables are sized and shaped to "fit" together — joining seamlessly into a single coffee table form with matching wood grains that align across both pieces. This was an intentional design choice, not a coincidence, and speaks to the craft sensibility of whoever made them. Use them as side tables flanking a sofa or chair, or push them together for a striking organic coffee table. Few pieces offer this kind of functional versatility.

George Nakashima (1905–1990) was an MIT-trained architect and master woodworker whose furniture philosophy centered on reverence for natural materials — allowing the grain, burls, and natural contours of each slab to guide the form. His work is collected by institutions including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Smithsonian, and has been owned by Steven Spielberg, Brad Pitt, and the late Steve Jobs. Nakashima-style pieces in teak with honest natural-edge construction are actively sought by MCM collectors at every level of the market.

Details

• Style: Nakashima-style / American Studio Furniture / Mid-Century Modern
• Material: Solid teak with natural live edge
• Configuration: Pair of side tables; convertible to single coffee table form
• Grain: Matching wood grains align when tables are joined
• Joinery: Dutchman dovetail repair (characteristic of Studio furniture tradition)
• Dimensions: Each 16"H × approx. 17"D; 31" and 29" wide respectively; approx. 60" combined length
• Maker: Unmarked
• Condition: Good overall condition consistent with age and use. Estate fresh to market.