Alexander Rodchenko 'Workers Club' Chess Table 1925/1989
This is for something very special. A chess table designed by the acclaimed Russian artist, sculptor, designer and founder of constructivism Alexander Rodchenko as part of the 'Workers Club' he built for the Soviet Pavillion at the Paris World's Fair of 1925. The artist aimed to create an optimal model space for self-education and cultural leisure activities, including playing chess. The project became very influential in the fields of art and design, and it was of great political significance as well, as it was the first time the Soviet Union would participate in such a major international event.
This exceptional piece is very rare, I cannot find another example on internet.
It is marked and dated underneath with ARK ? Febr. '89.
The table is very well crafted and is fully made of wood, probably beech. Originally it was stained in red and black, which still is a bit visible. The red and black chess pieces and the boxes at the sides to put them in are with it.
As Rodchenko intended for all the components of the Workers Club, the chess table is very compact, devoid of decorative elements, and as functional as possible.
The table is complete and in very good condition. The black and red stain has somehow largely disappeared. Some traces of use on the chess board.
This product is SOLD.