The last type of furniture structure created by Jean Prouvé was the Compas base of 1953. It is also one of his most iconic creations, together with the “Standard” chair based on the 1934 model, with which the “Compas” tables and desks were often associated.

The principle of tapering bent steel legs welded to a broad-section tubing brace began to be used in 1951 for the Maternelle and Scolaire furniture, in combination with more slender tubular supports. The new Compas base reused this principle in a pared-down form.

Called "Compas" from the outset, this frame was used simultaneously for tables and desks. The Cafétéria no. 512 table has a symmetrical base, the end brackets having the dual function of supporting the top and concealing the joining of the legs and crosspiece.

This piece is in an overall good condition and a prime example of Prouvé’s use of the Compas shape.