Unique Library Cabinet by Masanori Umeda for OAK Design, Italy

This library cabinet is a one-of-a-kind prototype crafted by Japanese designer Masanori Umeda in the 1990s, embodying a unique fusion of Eastern and Western design philosophies. Produced by OAK Design in Cantù, Italy, this exceptional piece bears the label, “OAK Design, Cantù Italy - Pezzo Unico (Unique) Masanori Umeda,” emphasizing its singularity in the design world.

The cabinet features two hinged doors with a round central cut-out, a design element reminiscent of traditional Asian moon gate shelves. This distinctive feature, combined with the asymmetrical yet thoughtfully balanced shelving arrangement, provides a harmonious aesthetic and functional appeal, making it an ideal centerpiece for any refined interior. Umeda’s vision brings together elements of Zen simplicity and Italian craftsmanship, resulting in a timeless, collectible work that is as much a piece of art as it is a functional library cabinet.

Masanori Umeda (b. 1941, Kanagawa, Japan), an influential Japanese designer, studied at the Kuwasawa Design School in Tokyo before moving to Milan in 1967 to work with Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni. He later collaborated with Ettore Sottsass and the Memphis Group, blending Japanese and Western influences. In 1986, Umeda returned to Japan to open his own studio, continuing to craft postmodern designs. His work is showcased in major museums worldwide, including MoMA, and has earned him numerous awards. In 2015, over 180 of his pieces were acquired by the M+ Museum in Hong Kong, solidifying his impact on global design.