Isamu Kenmochi Pair of Tables for Tendo Mokko

Pair of teak or elm tables designed by Isamu Kenmochi for Japanese maker Tendo Mokko. The design features a single molded plywood frame and legs, with the tabletop surrounded by delicate lifted edges known as "water-repellent". They were designed to prevent spills, like tea from falling down. This pair have their original patina with age appropriate wear. Model SM002.

Isamu Kenmochi was born in Tokyo in 1912. He graduated from the Department of Woodcraft at Tokyo Higher School of Industrial Arts in 1932, joining the Ministry of Commerce and Industry's Craft Guidance Institute. The following year, he studied "standard prototypes" for chairs and other items under German architect Bruno Taut, who was visiting Japan. In 1952. He helped establish the Japan Industrial Designers Association along with Riki Watanabe and Sori Yanagi. In 1955, he established the Kenmochi Design Institute. During Isamu Noguchi's first trip to Japan the two met, and developed a number of furniture designs. He has collaborated frequently with Kenzo Tange, one of Japan's leading architects.