Print Table
Frank Lloyd Wright, American, (1867-1959), architect
Print Table, c. 1900
Poplar and pine
48-1/2 x 44 x 26-1/4 in. (open)
Museum Purchase, 1995.01
Photographer: Philip Mrozinski
Adapted from a gateleg table type, Wright designed this piece for a very specific purpose - to view and display Japanese prints. The print table top could lie completely flat, or the front half could lie flat with the back turned up like an easel. Both positions aid in the viewing of Japanese prints. Wright's interest in designing efficient, functional furniture can be seen in this unique design.
Wright was an avid admirer of Japanese art and an early collector of Japanese prints. He used this table in his Oak Park studio to display his own collection of Japanese prints and he included print tables in his commissions for other early clients, such as Susan Lawrence Dana.