Mid‑Century Rustic French Tree Trunk Stool, France 1940s

A wonderfully authentic example of French rustic design, this 1940 tree‑trunk stool captures the understated charm and material honesty that defined early mid‑century rural craftsmanship. Its seat is carved from a solid cross‑section of natural wood, preserving the organic grain, irregular contours, and tactile presence of the tree itself. The bark‑edged silhouette gives the piece a sculptural quality, making it as decorative as it is functional. The stool rests on three splayed metal legs—an elegant contrast to the raw timber top. This combination of natural wood and industrial metal reflects a transitional moment in French design, when traditional materials met the emerging modernist sensibility of the 1940s. The result is a piece that feels grounded, minimal, and timeless. Originally used in farmhouses or workshops, stools like this were valued for their durability and simplicity. Today, they serve beautifully as accent seating, a side table, or a sculptural object that brings warmth and texture into contemporary interiors. A charming and honest French rustic stool from the 1940s—celebrated for its natural beauty, mid‑century character, and enduring simplicity.