A Pierre Jeanneret Judge's Lunch Table, dating from circa 1954. This model was designed for and used at the High Court in Chandigarh and is documented in the literature on Jeanneret's Chandigarh furniture.

The table has a simple but highly architectural construction. Two solid teak X-form supports are connected by a substantial central stretcher, creating a strong geometric base beneath the rectangular top. The X-form was a structural device Jeanneret used extensively throughout his Chandigarh furniture, appearing across a number of his table, desk and seating designs. The top is constructed with a solid teak outer frame surrounding a large inset teak-veneered panel.

For us, the surface of the table is one of its most appealing features. The top has developed a rich and varied patina through decades of institutional use, with numerous scratches, dings, dents, marks and variations in colour remaining clearly visible. These have deliberately been preserved rather than removed during restoration.

Interestingly, one side of the tabletop has considerably heavier patina than the other. The difference is quite pronounced when viewed from above and suggests that one side of the table received much greater use during its working life. It is a small detail, but one that gives a very tangible sense of how the piece was actually used.

The contrast between the heavily worn top and the warmer teak of the base works particularly well. Despite the substantial nature of the timber, the splayed X-shaped supports give the table a surprisingly light appearance, while the long central stretcher reinforces the strong geometry of the design.

The table has been structurally restored in London by a museum restorer, with the emphasis placed on conservation rather than renewal. The structure has been made sound and entirely usable while the accumulated surface, wear and patina have been retained. The tabletop has not been stripped back to create a uniform finish, allowing the evidence of its long institutional use to remain an integral part of the piece.

We have specialised in Pierre Jeanneret furniture for nearly nineteen years and have extensive experience in identifying, sourcing, restoring and selling his work. Given the number of later reproductions and incorrectly attributed pieces now on the market, we understand the importance of provenance, construction, materials and restoration when assessing Chandigarh furniture. We are always happy to discuss these aspects in detail and answer any questions regarding the attribution, provenance or restoration of our Chandigarh pieces.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

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Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.