T-21D ‘Sfax’ Dining Table - Pierre Chapo - France

Early Pierre Chapo T21D “Sfax” Dining Table & S38 Bench in Solid French Elm — France, 1969
An exceptionally early, first-owner Pierre Chapo ensemble in solid French elm, preserved with its original surface and a remarkable deep amber patina.

An outstanding early example of Pierre Chapo’s iconic T21D “Sfax” dining table, accompanied by its matching S38 curved bench. Both pieces were acquired directly by their first owner in France in 1969 and have remained together ever since. The table is stamped underneath with the date 69, providing an important and uncommon reference for its early production.

Entirely executed in solid French elm, the ensemble displays the sculptural construction that defines Chapo’s work: the circular tabletop rests on an architectural arrangement of intersecting solid-wood legs, while the S38 bench echoes its geometry through a beautifully curved double-slat seat and exposed joinery. The 138 cm diameter makes the table particularly versatile, offering generous seating while retaining remarkably balanced proportions.

What truly distinguishes this example is its original, untouched surface and exceptional patina. The wood has never been sanded or refinished and, after more than half a century, has developed an unusually deep warm amber to reddish-orange tone. Early French elm pieces of this character have become increasingly sought after, particularly as mature French elm became far less readily available following the devastating spread of Dutch elm disease across Europe during the second half of the 20th century. Chapo's use of elm and its warm coloration was already being specifically noted in contemporary French press in 1976.

The table and bench are photographed here together with a later Pierre Chapo stool and a pair of vintage Cassina leather dining chairs from circa the 1980s, illustrating how naturally Chapo’s work combines with pieces from different periods. The original set of four Pierre Chapo S45 chairs acquired by the same first owner is also still available separately, offering the rare possibility of reuniting the ensemble in its original configuration.

Condition
Very good original vintage condition with normal traces of use consistent with age. The table and matching bench retain their original finish and have never been sanded or restored. Their rich coloration and naturally developed patina are an integral part of the character and provenance of this early 1969 ensemble.

Technical details

Designer: Pierre Chapo
Model table: T21D “Sfax”
Model bench: S38
Manufacturer: Pierre Chapo
Year: 1969
Country: France
Material: Solid French elm
Provenance: Acquired by the first owner in France in 1969
Markings: Table stamped “69” underneath
Originality: Original surface; never sanded or refinished
Additional availability: Original set of four S45 chairs from the same first owner available separately