Modernist table with extensions René Jean Caillette

Extending table designed by René Jean Caillette in the early 1950s for publisher “Groupe 4 Charron”.

• Very good original condition, though the top has been refinished by our restorer.
• T-section steel base.
• L 150 CM X W 95 CM X H 75 CM
• 2 extensions of 45 CM
• Bibliography, “Aujourd’hui Art & Architecture” number 5, November 1955, pg 1 (Source FAD)

A René-Jean Caillette extending table for Groupe 4 Charron

This extending table was designed by René-Jean Caillette in the early 1950s for French publisher Groupe 4 Charron. A leading figure in post-war modernist furniture, Caillette developed a highly restrained stylistic language where functionality guides every detail. The rectangular top rests on a T-section steel base, characteristic of this period when metal and industrial materials accompanied the renewal of domestic furniture.

Thanks to its two 45 cm leaves, this table easily transitions from everyday use to a large reception table. Its balanced proportions and slender base allow it to maintain remarkable visual lightness despite its large seating capacity.

A model published in 1955

Bibliography, “Aujourd’hui Art & Architecture” issue 5, November 1955, pg 1

This model appears in issue 5 of Aujourd’hui Art & Architecture magazine, published in November 1955, alongside other creations published by Groupe 4 Charron. This publication attests to the distribution of this furniture among French architects and decorators during the 1950s and constitutes a bibliographic reference documenting its production.

Amusing detail: this same publication also features an advertisement for Rotaflex, of which we recently offered an example of the R1 tripod lamp, co-published by L’Atelier de Recherche Plastique (A.R.P.). Founded by Pierre Guariche, Michel Mortier and Joseph-André Motte, three contemporaries of René-Jean Caillette, this collective was among the main players in the French design revival of the 1950s that the specialized press of the time called the “young wolves.” A.R.P. also created the famous Coquetier armchairs, made famous by their appearance in Jacques Tati’s film Mon Oncle.

Rotaflex “R1” tripod lamp

Two Coquetier armchairs also called Diabolo designed by Atelier de Recherche Plastique.