Jagdish Sutar's Objects Of Legacy Reimagines Traditional Furniture Through Modern Design

The Indian charpai is a daybed which is over 5000 years old. Used for sleeping and lounging, the charpai is is made by woven textile that is stretched on a wooden frame. It is still an important piece of furniture in India's design landscape and continues to be used in dhabas and rural India. Homegrown brand Jagdish Sutar, that is rooted in the woodworking legacy of Rajasthan, reimagines this daybed in their latest artisan series, 'Objects of Legacy'.

With creative direction from Milan, Italy, where Jagdish travelled to for further refinement of his design practice, Objects of Legacy harmonises the artisanal heritage of Charpai from Rajasthan with contemporary design elements. Each piece in this series celebrates traditional woodworking techniques and the Charpai weaving, inspired by Rajasthan's historic step-wells (Bawris) in a collaboration with Suthar karigars (artisans).

Their daybed, stands on its unique asymmetrical legs with the Bawri weaving patterns on the seating. The natural teak wood against the cotton creates a visual intrigue through material and colour contrast. Clean lines dictate the silhouette of the bed with curved edges to soften the look. A circular version called the family daybed, uses the circular weave structure complemented by a bold square-shaped frame to create the visual contrast. A simple daybed is transformed into a centerpiece in a living space through an immaculate design.

The pair of stools feature a three-legged design that offers dual seating arrangements in two different configurable angles instead of the usual 90 degree found in chairs offering a fresh perspective on comfort and making it a versatile piece. The elongated legs serve as both the backrest and armrest, providing a graceful seating experience.

The coffee table is a sleek masterpiece that challenges conventional design by embracing an intentional touch of imbalance.With its triangulated three legs, it breaks our perceived notions of a typical table. The minimal design directs our attention to the joints of the legs and the beautiful grain of teak instead.

The small side table, with its two-legged design positioned asymmetrically creates a fascinating composition. Whereas, the tall side table features an elongated, lean design with intersecting legs and stepped platforms, one round and one square, forming different dimensions within the structure.

The console cabinet features two distinct storage compartments—a rectangular and a semi-circular form supported by full-length legs. With its charming chamfered and rounded edges, this cabinet exudes a playful sophistication. The bar cabinet is a lone-wolf version of the former.This minimalist capsule-shaped piece with its well-aligned legs & brass accent is designed to house bottles, wine, glasses, and accessories, offering a stylish storage solution.

The mirror stands tall featuring side-aligned legs that mirrors its own shape, creating a harmonious design narrative. An intersected wooden tray offers practical utility in a stylish and minimalist form. The coat hanger stand, crafted from a single woodcut divided into three parts, features adjustable brass hooks for hanging coats and accessories.

Through the Objects of Legacy series, Jagdish Sutar aims to create furniture that tells stories of tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary elegance with the help of artisans that keep the design heritage of India alive.

Follow Jagdish Sutar here.

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