Ruth and Murray Raphel began a life-long relationship with George Nakashima in the early 1960s and continued to purchase pieces from the artist for over two decades. The Raphels, who owned a clothing business in Atlantic City, New Jersey, personally met with George about once every year or two to select wood for each acquisition.
The closer the relationship a client had with Mr. Nakashima, the more interesting the wood selection tended to be. Additionally, these clients often ended up with rarer forms, such as the Bahut cabinet.
The present lot represents part of the heart of this family’s collection and is being offered for sale for the first time.
