Pierre Chapo B30 shelving unit in Elm France 1960

Pierre Chapo

France, 1927 – 1987
Designer, craftsman

Super rare and large executed modular B30 bookcase designed by Pierre Chapo and manufactured in his own workshop in France, ca 1960. Built with solid elm wood, it features six sturdy shelves with a rich grain and warm color, supported by Y-shaped supports. A nice detail is the multiple wooden parts of elm wood used to make the shelve from. Which gives the bookcase a very nice graphical appearance. The modular design allows you to hang it according to your preference, creating a unique and personalised storage solution. Its robust construction makes it ideal for displaying books or any decorative items you cherish.

The work of Chapo combines ancient woodworking skill and tradition with a contemporary approach. In designing his distinguished pieces, Solid oak, elm, teak, and ash were mainly used. After graduating from the Parisian École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in architectural studies, he travelled through Scandinavia, Central America, and the United States.

After returning to the French capital, he opened his own gallery in 1958 on boulevard de l’Hôpital 14, where among other artists mainly his and Isamu Noguchi’s creations were on display. In 1960, he received a gold medal from the city of Paris as a token of appreciation for his contributions to the city. Pierre Chapo is for sure one of the best designers from French soil, clearly to be seen at his architectural designs and craftsmanship.

Literature; Pierre Chapo A Modern Craftsman Magen H Gallery 2017, page 243