Octagonal Shadowbox Pedestal Dining Set
Table and Seating Set (Display Dining Table and Sculptural Side Chairs) · Contemporary Artisan with Mid-Century Modern influences (Late 20th to Early 21st Century) · Likely a boutique studio or high-end craft manufacturer such as Thos. Moser or a regional custom furniture maker specializing in hard-edge sculptural designs.
Type
Table and Seating Set (Display Dining Table and Sculptural Side Chairs)
Style Period
Contemporary Artisan with Mid-Century Modern influences (Late 20th to Early 21st Century)
Material
Solid hardwood (likely Cherry or stained Maple), tempered plate glass for the tabletop and side panels, felt or velvet interior lining for the display case.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The design language combines 1970s shadowbox trends with 21st-century minimalist joinery.
Dimensions
Table: 30" height, 36"-40" diameter. Chairs: 32" back height, 18" seat height. Size is compact, fitting for breakfast nooks or small galleries.
Origin
Likely North American (USA or Canada), consistent with studio furniture movements prevalent in the Pacific Northwest or New England.
Designer/Maker
Likely a boutique studio or high-end craft manufacturer such as Thos. Moser or a regional custom furniture maker specializing in hard-edge sculptural designs.
Value Estimate
$1,500 - $3,500 for the set. Value is driven by the complexity of the table construction and the sculptural quality of the chairs.
Description
This striking dining set centers around an octagonal pedestal table featuring an integrated shadowbox display. The glass-enclosed compartment allows for the curation of natural specimens or collectibles beneath the dining surface. Complementing the table are three sculptural chairs featuring high, tapered backs and ergonomic scooped seats that echo the sharp, clean lines of the pedestal base. It is a functional piece of furniture that doubles as an exhibition cabinet.
Key Features
Octagonal glass shadowbox display, pedestal base with cross-foot design, ergonomic scooped wooden seats, and flared saber-style rear chair legs.
Color & Finish
Deep Mahogany or Walnut stain with a satin lacquer finish. The finish shows a subtle sheen that highlights the wood’s natural grain while providing a uniform dark reddish-brown hue.
Construction Method
Bespoke or low-volume craft production. Hand-assembled with focus on visible structural elements and integrated glass housing. Machine-assisted cutting with hand-finishing.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Visible bridle joints on the pedestal base and integrated mortise-and-tenon joints for the chair backs. The chair seats show precision concave carving (scooping) for comfort.
Wood Grain & Species
Fine-grained hardwood, likely Cherry, exhibiting a subtle straight grain with occasional wavy patterns. The wood is selected for structural strength to support the heavy glass.
Surface Treatment
Stained and top-coated with a protective satin varnish. The chair seats are sanded to a high grit to provide a smooth, tactile surface despite the lack of upholstery.
Upholstery Details
None. The chairs feature solid wood carved tractor-style seats designed for ergonomic comfort without the need for fabric.
Hardware & Fittings
Hidden glass shelf supports or clear adhesive bumpers for the glass top. Minimalist metal brackets may be present inside the shadowbox to secure the glass facets.
Origin & Provenance
Likely North American (USA or Canada), consistent with studio furniture movements prevalent in the Pacific Northwest or New England.
Condition Notes
Overall Good to Very Good. Some surface abrasions and minor finish wear are visible on the chair seats. The glass appears intact without major chips, though the table finish shows typical light use.
Interesting Facts
Shadowbox furniture gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a way to integrate hobbyist collections (like shells or coins) directly into the living space, essentially making the furniture a conversational 'living museum'.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the 'Studio Furniture' movement where functional objects are treated as fine art, emphasizing the display of natural materials and the owner's personal artifacts.
Similar Pieces
Can be confused with 1970s 'Hollywood Regency' brass shadowbox tables, but distinguished by its heavy wood construction and minimalist, non-ornamental aesthetic.
Care & Maintenance
Clean glass with ammonia-free cleaner. Treat wood with high-quality paste wax or lemon oil twice a year. Avoid placing heavy objects on the glass center. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading of the reddish stain.
Value Estimate
$1,500 - $3,500 for the set. Value is driven by the complexity of the table construction and the sculptural quality of the chairs.
Sustainability Notes
Constructed from solid hardwoods which offer centuries of durability. This piece represents 'slow furniture'—an alternative to disposable mass-market items, designed to be repaired rather than replaced.