Rattan Stool
Manufactured by Yamakawa Rattan
Japan, 1970s
Rattan

Measurements
30 cm diameter x 25h cm
11,8 in diameter x 9,8h in

Provenance
Private collection, Japan

About
This rattan stool exemplifies the design language of Yuzuru Yamakawa, a Japanese designer known for his pioneering work with rattan furniture in the mid‑20th century. Yamakawa’s pieces are characterized by elegantly curved lines, precise weaving, and a balance between structural clarity and natural material expression — qualities that helped elevate rattan from purely utilitarian furniture to objects of refined design.

Biography
Yuzuru Yamakawa (1933–2012) was a Japanese designer internationally recognized for his contributions to rattan furniture design. Born in Japan in 1933, Yamakawa worked with rattan for over 40 years, creating iconic pieces that seamlessly combine Japanese minimalism with traditional Indonesian weaving techniques.
He played an important role in establishing Yamakawa Rattan as a prominent manufacturer of design‑oriented rattan furniture. The company itself was founded in 1952 by Hichiro Yamakawa and became known for handcrafted rattan works recognized in exhibitions and design circles both in Japan and abroad.
Yamakawa’s designs reflect a deep understanding of ergonomics, material poise, and organic form, earning admiration in Japanese and European markets alike. His work helped redefine perceptions of rattan as a serious material for high‑quality furniture design, rather than merely casual or craft furniture.