Minimalist Wooden Japanese Fumidai, Trapezoid Step Stool, 1940s

Dimensions: height 48 cm, width 50 cm, depth 31 cm.

The trapezoid base tapers gently towards the top, where a simple rectangular seat or stepping surface forms the upper plane. At the front a circular opening has been cut out, breaking up the solid volume and giving the shape an almost sculptural quality.

The wood shows beautiful traces of intensive use. Its warm reddish-brown tone and irregular surface lend the piece a pronounced wabi-sabi character – pure, calm and timeworn without feeling fragile.

In an interior this fumidai works as a strong, earthy accent. Beautiful as a small podium for a vase with branches, a sculpture, ikebana or ceramics; next to a sofa or armchair it can also serve as a low side table.

Thanks to its natural presence it combines easily with both minimalist and eclectic interiors, instantly adding a warm Japanese touch to the room.