Detail : Five Table : Non-Traditional Furniture Design and Art - Cliff Papik
Cliff Papik
Designer & Maker
exploring the art of furniture in wood

Five Table

Sub Category

Numeric symbols have varied greatly around the world and constantly evolved through history. Yet they repeatedly exhibit a few simple forms. The Five Table takes this reference literally; it is a visual meditation on one such symbol. With a dramatic cantilevered top, it forms the familiar modern five shape when viewed in profile. Marquetry on the drawer front displays the symbol for the number five from five ancient numerical writing systems: hieratic Egyptian, Brahmi from India, Babylonian, Mayan, and Attic Greek. In addition, the core center portion consists of five bricklayed layers, with additional representations of the number on the underside of the top. The table is constructed from 115 'bricklayed' pieces giving its convoluted shape strength without additional support.

24"L x 17.5"W x 24"H

Black limba, black limba and yellow- and black-dyed veneers.