Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller Elliptical Table Surfboard

A 1980's Charles and Ray Eames designed 'Elliptical' or 'Surfboard' coffee table, designed by Charles Eames for Herman Miller, with white laminate top, on chrome wire base, Herman Miller lable to underside, good vintage examples like this are quite rare, and this table, while having a patina appropriate for its age and use, is one of the finest we’ve seen.

The Story:

In 1951, having perfected a manufacturing technique for welding wire-rod bases, Charles and Ray Eames decided to bridge two bases with a dramatically shaped top large enough to hold a variety of items and fit comfortably with a long sofa or several chairs.

They considered many shapes. In the end, did they take their inspiration from the surfboards they doubtless saw frequently, given the commanding view of the Pacific Ocean from their California home and studio? They never said, but people often refer to this piece as the "surfboard table." Whatever you call it, the wire base elliptical table makes it clear that good design never goes out of style.

With its long, low profile, the Eames wire base elliptical table sits dramatically in front of a long sofa or in the middle of a chair grouping. It sets a striking stage for displaying mid-century fat lava vases, fresh flowers, magazines, or a special book in a living room, waiting room, reception area, or executive lounge, finished in white laminate, the table makes a strong and beautiful statement wherever it is.

Mid Century Design
1994
Charles and Ray Eames
Herman Miller
Steel
Laminate