Cocobolo Parquet Coffee Table by Don S. Shoemaker for Señal s.a., Mexico, 1960s

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An exceptional large-scale cocobolo parquet coffee table designed by don s. Shoemaker for señal s.a., mexico, circa 1960s. The long, … Read more An exceptional large-scale cocobolo parquet coffee table designed by don s. Shoemaker for señal s.a., mexico, circa 1960s. The long, low rectangular top is composed of numerous small sections of richly figured cocobolo arranged in a sophisticated geometric parquet pattern. Alternating directions of the grain create a subtle mosaic-like rhythm across the surface, allowing the natural variations of the tropical hardwood to become the principal decorative element. The tabletop is supported by four highly distinctive sculptural legs, each flowing outward in an elegant organic curve. This combination of geometric surface treatment and expressive, almost horn-like supports is characteristic of don shoemaker’s approach to furniture design and closely relates to his celebrated cuerno family of tables. Shoemaker developed his furniture in mexico through señal s.a., the workshop and manufacturing company he established in santa maría de guido, michoacán. His work combined the vocabulary of mid-century modernism with mexican craft traditions and an exceptional sensitivity to indigenous tropical woods, particularly cocobolo. Documented examples of this exact long-format parquet table measure approximately 72 × 24 inches, corresponding almost precisely to the proportions of the present example. The unusually generous length of 183 cm gives the table a strong architectural presence while maintaining the low, elegant proportions typical of mid-century lounge furniture. A particularly striking example of mexican modernist furniture, combining exceptional material, hand-crafted detail and one of shoemaker’s most recognizable sculptural design languages. Designer: don s. Shoemaker manufacturer: señal s.a. Origin: mexico period: 1960s style: mid-century modern / mexican modern material: cocobolo wood technique: parquetry dimensions: height: 15.75 in (40 cm) width: 72.05 in (183 cm) depth: 24.02 in (61 cm) See less