Swedish Modern Birchwood Coffee Table, Sweden 1930s (sold)

Swedish Modern Birchwood Coffee Table, Sweden 1930s (sold)

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Upon hearing the expression “Swedish Modern”, many people conjure up images of sleek furniture made from natural materials. In reality, Swedish Modern isn’t far from this idea, however, it is not simply an exercise in nostalgia, it is this coffee table: uncluttered, timeless, cosy, with impeccable quality of material and craftsmanship.

Thanks in great part to an early emphasis on wood and a theoretical resistance to certain modernist currents by influential designers, Swedish Modern has avoided associations with cold industrialization and machine aesthetics. The era’s designers’ predilection for curvilinear shapes and certain woods, often oak or birch, is evident in this coffee table’s sinuous circular top and solid wood body. Since Swedish modern designs are first and foremost utilitarian objects, this table’s form follows function, with a sizeable, painted top and a structure that assures stability. This birch coffee table is striking in balancing large volumes with clean geometrical lines. The legs are geometrical with rounded edges and are connected by two crossed stretchers. Design also represents a dialogue with the culture; therefore, the maker did not forget that aesthetics and visual appearance add to cosiness: the pair of stretchers also serves an aesthetic role while also supporting the strength of the structure. This dual-purpose shows why Swedish, and on a bigger scale Scandinavian cabinetmakers and their designs are some of the most thoughtful pieces of furniture in existence.

The subtle details, like the carved legs and seamless joinery are just as important as the more visible characteristics as they complement and complete the design. The birchwood has aged beautifully and displays a beautiful grain within the wood. The later black painted tabletop pops against the wood, and gives the design a modern edge.