Tadao Arimoto

Cherry wood stool

20.5 in. L × 12.5 in. W × 18 in. H

Two cherry platforms of the same irregular plan—thick seat over a thinner base—held apart by a tight cluster of turned spindles. Verticals and raked crosses share the load; there are no stretchers. The seat is faceted and notched, with strong figure across the top. Underneath, each spindle is a through-tenon locked with a contrasting wedge.

Structure is the design. Solid cherry.

Tadao Arimoto

Woodworker, trained in product design in Kyoto. Came to the United States in 1976 and has worked in Pittsburgh since, first teaching furniture construction, then from his own shop. Prefers American hardwoods, especially cherry. His pieces are made to be used: quiet in outline, exact in joinery, and allowed to change with age.