e15 | BACKENZAHN BLACK OAK – ANNIVERSARY EDITION

e15 celebrates 25 years of BACKENZAHN™ with a new edition of the iconic side table by Philipp Mainzer. Introduced as part of the E15 SELECTED collection, a matte-black finish highlights the alchemic process that produces a natural tannic acid reaction in the oak wood, when triggered with a special mixture of natural ingredients.

Product page BACKENZAHN BLACK OAK
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BACKENZAHN BLACK OAK Sidetable
DESIGN: Philipp Mainzer
Oak, tannin black waxed

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DESIGN: Philipp Mainzer, Farah Ebrahimi

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DESIGN: David Thulstrup

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BACKENZAHN BLACK OAK features the natural transformation of untreated oak into a matte black surface when treated with a liquid mixture. Produced in different stages, using vinegar to loosen iron particles, a water based solution is prepared. Once the special mixture is applied to the untreated oak, the natural darkening process begins.

Due to the structural properties of the wood as well as its inherent degrees of acid, the colouring of the reaction produces tones of matte black. The surface of each unique piece is sealed with a waxed finish.

The BACKENZAHN BLACK OAK is stamped with Philipp Mainzer’s signature and a TWENTYFIVE YEARS BACKENZAHN imprint underneath each piece. The process for manufacturing the black oak is a tribute to the natural properties of oak wood and underlines e15’s fascination with traditional craftsmanship and special manufacturing methods.

Designed by architect Philipp Mainzer in 1996, the BACKENZAHN™ is an identifiable icon for e15 and part of several museum collections. For its signature form and detail the centre of the tree is used. During the seasoning of the solid wood, the legs form their characteristic cracks, which make every stool unique. To this day, the BACKENZAHN embodies e15’s core values in the pure use of materials and the combination of traditional craftsmanship coupled with progressive design.