Tafel met twee uitschuifbare bladen c. 1898 - 1910

This is Theo Nieuwenhuis's table with two retractable leaves, sitting here at the Rijksmuseum. The beauty of functional objects often lies in their maker's sensitivity to material and form, right? It's clear Nieuwenhuis really understood wood, its warmth and potential for simple elegance. I’m drawn to how the tabletop's surface appears almost like a tray. Look at the raised edges, and how they’re so gently rounded. It gives the piece a sense of containment, as if it’s cradling whatever is placed upon it. And see the subtle variations in color, the way the light plays across the grain? It’s not just about function; it’s about creating a harmonious relationship between object and user. You can also see that intention in the shelf underneath the table, which mirrors the tabletop. The simplicity in the design reminds me of the Shaker aesthetic, where utility and beauty are inseparable. It’s a testament to the idea that art can be found in the everyday, in the things we live with.