The Zangbeto Side Table is a striking piece of furniture that seamlessly blends West African heritage with modern craftsmanship. Designed by Salù Iwadi Studio, the table draws inspiration from Benin’s Zangbeto masquerade, a deeply symbolic ritual representing spiritual guardianship, communal unity, and protection. This design reinterprets the ceremonial essence of the Zangbeto into functional art, allowing users to engage with history and culture in a tangible, everyday form.

A Design Rooted in Tradition

The Zangbeto masquerade is an iconic practice of the Ogu (Egùn) people, where masked figures clad in towering raffia costumes perform elaborate spinning dances. These movements symbolize the presence of unseen forces, reinforcing the Zangbeto’s role as spiritual intermediaries. The side table encapsulates this dynamic motion through its conical silhouette and layered wooden fins, arranged radially to mimic the hypnotic spinning of the Zangbeto.

Salù Iwadi Studio describes the table as a vessel of cultural storytelling, stating, “This piece embodies the blend of spirituality, tradition, and communal unity that defines the role of the Zangbeto in Beninese culture.”

A Sculptural Interpretation of Motion

The overall form of the Zangbeto Side Table mirrors the flowing, centrifugal energy of the masquerade. Crafted from sustainably sourced Iroko wood, the layered wooden fins taper upwards in a seamless gradient, reinforcing a sense of weightlessness. The interplay of negative space between the fins allows light to pass through, casting shifting shadows reminiscent of the movement of the masquerade dancers.

One of the most compelling aspects of the design is its multi-functionality. The angular configuration of the fins enables the table to double as a bookshelf, effortlessly blending form and function. This thoughtful integration of utility and artistry underscores the potential of contemporary design to honor traditional craftsmanship while serving modern needs.

Textural and Symbolic Details

Beyond its sculptural form, the table’s surface tells its own story. The tabletop is adorned with carved spiral ridges that ripple outward from the center, evoking the cosmic energy pathways associated with the Zangbeto’s performances. These concentric patterns invite tactile engagement, allowing users to physically trace the ceremonial narrative through touch.

The alternating matte and polished finishes on the surface mimic the interplay of light and shadow seen during Zangbeto rituals, further enriching the table’s visual dynamism. Meanwhile, the natural wood grain maintains an organic connection to the earth, reinforcing its grounding in cultural and material heritage.

Honoring Craftsmanship and Cultural Legacy

Each Zangbeto Side Table is meticulously handcrafted, reflecting a commitment to preserving traditional woodworking techniques while pushing the boundaries of contemporary furniture design. The careful layering of elements ensures that every piece carries the precision and artistry reminiscent of the Zangbeto costumes.

Through this innovative fusion of design and cultural symbolism, the Zangbeto Side Table invites a deeper dialogue about the ways in which history, spirituality, and art intersect. More than just a functional object, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of African heritage, reinterpreted through the lens of modern design.

Specifications

• Production: Lagos, Nigeria
• Year: 2025
• Material: Iroko Wood (Neutral/Ebonized)
• Dimensions: 70cm H x 54cm W x 54cm L

Salù Iwadi Studio’s Zangbeto Side Table is not just furniture; it is a conversation between past and present, a tribute to the guardians of tradition, and a celebration of the artistry that continues to shape African design on a global stage.