Modern History: Bauhaus Nesting Tables

In the course of furniture design history, there are pieces that stand the test of time, becoming so familiar that they are instantaneously recognizable. One such design is the Bauhaus Nesting Tables Set, also called Albers Nesting Tables after their designer. Josef Albers designed this set of accent tables while serving as artistic director of the furniture workshop at Bauhaus (School) Weimar in 1926-27. These minimalist tables are a study in modern design, crafted of solid oak and lacquered acrylic glass. As an artist with a passion for color, Albers gave each of his nesting tables a different distinctive color.

From every angle, Joseph Albers nesting tables are exquisite in their simplicity, continually reminding us of the far reaching modern design influences of the Bauhaus and those associated with it. Please enjoy this exploration of Bauhaus Nesting Tables from many points of view:

Josef Albers gave us his vast series of nested squares of color called “Homage to the Square” and the iconic accent tables instantly recognizable as Albers nesting tables.

As know as the Bauhaus Nesting Tables Set, Josef Albers Nesting Tables include four tables graduating in size from large to small in green, yellow, orange and blue.

Here the tables are separated so that all four are shown. Sunlight enhances the beauty of the lacquered tops. The artist lacquered the underside of each glass top in a different color.

Here’s a bird’s eye view of the nesting tables. MOMA tells us, “These versatile tables are designed to work “independently and interdependently.”

In this photograph of Professor’s Albers room at the Bauhaus in Dessau, Germany, we get a view of one orange nesting table and other pieces he designed.

From this point of view, the Josef Albers Nesting Tables offered in MOMA’s museum store appear to have more vibrant color. (We’re not sure if this is the result of the lighting or if these colors are true.)

 We don’t often see the Albers tables in their nested position. From this point of view, we can see the precision and meticulous sizing of each table in relation to its siblings.

In 2012, the retrospective “Bauhaus: Art as Life” was presented at the Barbican Art Gallery in London, England.

Wrought iron Nesting Tables from Charleston Forge offer lots of possibilities for the living room or bedroom. Highly functional and simply beautiful, this trio of graduated square (almost) tables is created from hand-forged iron and quality wood for a distinctive look. Nest them when not in use and pull them out when needed.

Image Sources: Pinterest.com; Stardust.com; Remodelista.com; MOMAStore.org; TimesHigherEducation.co.uk.