B9 nesting tables by Marcel Breuer – Thonet-Frankenberg, 1930s Bauhaus design

The B9 table by Marcel Breuer, a set of three produced by Thonet-Frankenberg, is regarded as one of the formative designs of early Bauhaus Modernism. Developed in the late 1920s, the design exemplifies Breuer’s consistent use of tubular steel as both a structural and formal element. The clear construction, reduced form and functional graduation give the B9 a distinctive typological clarity.

The overall condition can be described as original and of museum-quality. The original black lacquer of the tabletops shows an authentic, naturally matured patina; all tabletops have been museum-conservatively treated, with selective, discreet interventions. Two of the three tables retain early original plaques, further supporting their period attribution.

In contrast to numerous varying executions of the B9 from other production contexts, these examples feature the correct tubular steel diameter as specified in Breuer’s original design – corresponding to the design standard of the late 1920s. In addition, the tabletops are secured using the Thonet-typical clamp fittings, a constructional detail frequently absent in deviating versions. In such alternative executions, the tabletops were often fixed by screws passing directly through the tubing.The B 9 is extensively documented in the literature, including:
Alexander von Vegesack, Deutsche Stahlrohrmöbel, Bangert Verlag, 1986.