Dutch Cabinetmaker Folding Dining Table by De Volharding, Netherlands 1950s (sold)
Dutch Cabinetmaker Folding Dining Table by De Volharding, Netherlands 1950s (sold)
Mid-century Dutch furniture design was characterized by a blend of modernist influences and a commitment to functionality. Wooden furniture from this time period often featured clean lines and a focus on the natural beauty of the wood, as seen with this dining table.
Furthermore, Dutch cabinetmakers focused on prioritizing usability and functionality alongside aesthetics. De Volharding was founded in the 1930s by Albert Boesveld (1905 – 1966) and Victor Klaassen. Initially, the company supplied wooden window frames, stairs and doors, and later school furniture. When a large wave of emigration originated from the Netherlands in the 1950s, the factory produced collapsible furniture that could easily be shipped in special boxes, like this folding table.
The design of this table is characterized by clean lines and minimalistic details, reflecting the influence of mid-century modernism. Its simple yet refined silhouette makes it suitable for various interior styles and decor preferences. This folding table embodies the manufacturer’s commitment to functionality, craftsmanship, and modern design aesthetics.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor marks and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
54.33 in W x 31.10 in D x 30.31 in H
138 cm W x 79 cm D x 77 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
The 1960s saw furniture makers apply the principles of modern design to increasingly versatile pieces. As homes became increasingly modern, desks were no longer treated as purely utilitarian objects but as pieces of furniture expected to integrate naturally within a living space. Designers responded by refining forms, adding sleek storage, and placing greater emphasis on the visual lightness of their creations. The result was furniture that remained highly functional while maintaining a distinctly architectural character.
At first glance, this 1960s desk appears simple. The rectangular top rests within a clean, open framework, creating a silhouette that feels balanced and remarkably precise. Closer inspection reveals its most distinctive feature: three integrated drawers concealed behind a series of horizontal fronts. This detail looks like a simple aesthetic detail, while it showcases the designer’s concern with practicality. The stacked drawer fronts create a subtle rhythm across the front without disturbing the calm geometry of the piece. When opened this detail creates a layered effect that captivates the eye and emphasizes the horizontal construction. The warm tone of the wood further enhances the design. The open sides prevent the desk from appearing heavy, while the strong stretcher below reinforces the structure and contributes to its clear architectural presence.
What makes this desk particularly successful is the way storage is incorporated into the overall composition. Rather than reading as separate functional elements, the drawers become part of the design itself. The piece carries the quiet confidence associated with the best Italian modern furniture, where proportion, practicality, and visual clarity work together effortlessly.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The desk has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the material, the item has minor scratches and dents, and may have additional marks or discolouration.
Dimensions:
59 in W x 30.3 in D x 31.6 in H
150 cm W x 77 cm D x 80.5 cm H