J. B. Blunk

Overall superb condition, original finish. With only minor surface marks and some surface dirt in the open burls as expected. Note that the table, including the legs, is carved from a single piece of burled wood save for a small inset piece on one leg. There is also an added piece of wood on the underside to provide support for the extended edge of the top. The bold, dynamic grain and burl texture showcases the natural beauty of the wood and features a blue-black figuring throughout. The top has a sanded and lightly varnished finish, while the hand-carved legs are natural and rougher.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

J. B. Blunk's experimental and adventurous sculptural furniture epitomized the spirit of 1960s California design. Blunk first studied ceramics, earning a degree from UCLA and apprenticing in Japan where he became friends with Isamu Noguchi, who proved a lifelong influence on his work.  He returned to California in the mid-1950s and began creating monumental wood sculptures and furniture in the early 60s. Using large and unusual wood pieces found near his home in Inverness, Blunk created works that were an extension of the "reverence for wood" movement exemplified by George Nakashima. As Lee Nordness stated in Objects USA, "Since 1961 Blunk has been creating wood sculptures in which functional elements are only broadly implied."

 

 

A hallmark of Blunk's uncommon take on organic naturalism was his use of a chainsaw to shape the wood-a technique that belies his exquisite craftsmanship. This unique piece was originally commissioned by a wealthy Japanese businessman as a low dining table in the Eastern tradition. The client was wary of food falling through the natural openings in the burls, so Blunk made him a new table from redwood and kept this piece for himself. A superb example of Blunk's woodworking skill and bold vision, this sculptural table is carved-legs and all-from a single piece of buckeye burl.