Design & History

The table is attributed to Robert Slezák, whose factory in Bystřice pod Hostýnem became one of the important Czechoslovak producers of modern tubular steel furniture during the interwar period.

By the early 1930s, Slezák was producing a wide range of chromed tubular steel furniture as the radical ideas of European Modernism began entering everyday Czechoslovak interiors. Lightweight construction, industrial materials and functional forms replaced much of the ornament and visual weight associated with traditional furniture.

This table is believed to correspond to Slezák's Model ST44. Although this particular example does not retain a manufacturer's label, it was sourced together with a pair of chairs believed to originate from the same company, and its construction and design closely correspond with Slezák's tubular steel production of the period.

Similar round tables were also produced by other important Czechoslovak manufacturers, including Gottwald, Mücke-Melder and Vichr, often with variations in the tabletop material and finish. This reflects how widely the new language of tubular steel furniture had spread through Czechoslovak design by the 1930s.

Design Details

The table is defined by an exceptionally simple composition: a substantial circular wooden top appears to float above four slender chromed tubular steel legs.

The legs descend vertically from beneath the tabletop and are connected near the floor by a circular steel ring. This restrained construction gives the table visual lightness while creating a beautifully balanced geometric form.

The warm honey tone and distinctive grain of the beech top provide a natural contrast to the cooler polished chrome below. Rather than competing with one another, the two materials emphasise the qualities of each other — warm against cool, natural against industrial, solid against visually lightweight.

There is almost no unnecessary decoration. The character of the piece comes instead from proportion, material and construction - principles that were central to Modernist furniture design during the period.

Why We Like It

We love the simplicity of this table. There is almost nothing to it - a round wooden top, four tubular steel legs and a single circular support - yet the proportions make the whole piece feel incredibly well resolved.

The contrast between the beautifully figured, warm beech and the cool chromed steel is particularly striking. From some angles, the slender frame almost disappears and the wooden top seems to float above the floor.

It is also exactly the kind of 1930s Modernist furniture we enjoy finding: functional and beautifully made, but without trying too hard to make a statement. Nearly a century later, it still feels completely at home in a contemporary interior.

Condition & Restoration

The wooden top has been professionally restored by our experienced craftsman, who specialises in Modernist furniture.

The restoration was carried out with respect for the original materials and character of the piece, bringing back the warmth and distinctive figuring of the beech while retaining the qualities of vintage furniture.

The chromed tubular steel frame has been carefully cleaned and polished and remains in very good vintage condition, with only minimal wear acquired through age and previous use.

The table is stable and ready for everyday use. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed record of its condition.

Details

Manufacturer: Attributed to Robert Slezák
Model: Believed to be ST44
Period: 1930s
Origin: Czechoslovakia
Materials: Beech, chromed tubular steel
Condition: Professionally restored
Quantity: 1

Dimensions

Diameter: 79 cm
Height: 66 cm

Delivery & Returns

The table will be carefully packed and shipped from our studio in Brno, Czech Republic.

EU shipping: €80, confirmed at checkout.
Estimated EU delivery: 3–5 working days

We also ship worldwide using trusted international couriers. Please contact us for a tailored shipping quote outside the EU.

EU customers have a 14-day right of withdrawal. Please see our Terms & Conditions for full details.

If you’d like to check anything before ordering - from condition and dimensions to delivery - Martin and Amy are always happy to help throughout the process, and also after your piece has arrived.