Vintage Charred Coffee Table, Europe ca 1960s (sold)
Vintage Charred Coffee Table, Europe ca 1960s (sold)
Vintage denotes something that is authentic from an era from the past, that was not made to imitate items of the past. This lovely coffee table exudes that charm that surrounds authentic pieces, with traditional woodworking techniques and an artisan level of craftsmanship.
In most European mid-century design, there was an early emphasis on wood as it connected everyday objects, such as furniture to nature. This rustic, solid wood coffee table is a perfect example of this sentiment, and the visual benefits of an understated, organic design. This coffee table follows the fundamental mid-century design principles; the simple design serves the purpose of showing the understated beauty of natural materials and their endless possibilities under the hands of an expert craftsman. The design is pared-down and uncluttered with unnecessary ornamentation. Instead, this table has a strong elemental feel to it, which is a result of its thick oval top, sturdy block legs, and of course, the dark charred surface treatment. The focus is entirely on the material, its raw surface and joinery techniques are kept simple to show off the beautiful grain and diverse patterns. The charred surface allows the individuality of the wood to stand out, allowing the eye to explore the depth of the texture with its various patterns and naturally occurring cracks. The height of the robust legs perfectly shows off the top, while their shape creates balance between the round and straight lines of the design.
The imperfections of the wood and the simple, organic design paired with the charring treatment makes this table stand out with an elemental edge. Its deep dark colour makes it easy to adapt to almost any interior to either complement a space, or to stand as an accent piece.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table has been later burnt to create a charred appearance.
Dimensions:
38.58 in ⌀ x 17.51 in H
98 cm ⌀ x 44.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This coffee table is a stunning example of Modernism in design: clear forms without exaggeration with the high-quality work of a Danish cabinetmaker. Humble in its material and size, this table still draws attention thanks to its distinctive look and personality.
Early on, many of the Danish cabinetmakers’ workshops had been producing historical furniture; master cabinetmakers had been renowned for their solid wooden furniture rendered in various styles of the past. This coffee table, while not specifically historical in style, shows some restrained decorative elements that are generally rather sparse in Scandinavian mid-century furniture. However, accordingly to the design ideals of Danish designers, the scalloping pattern is not overwhelming the table, nor does it demand attention, rather, it is an understated but clever addition to the design. The scalloped patterns on the tabletop and legs differ slightly; the scallops on the legs are more pronounced with straight lines between each scallop, while under the tabletop, it is in a more traditional, round shape.
The wavy effect is even more pronounced thanks to the beautiful grain and colour of the solid oak that is most apparent on the wide, circular top. As it can be expected from Danish design and craftsmanship, visually appealing elements usually serve a functional role as well. In this case, the wooden elements under the table reinforce the stability of the structure in this ingenious manner.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the material, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
35.03 in W x 35.03 in D x 22.04 in H
89 cm W x 89 cm D x 56 cm H
About the Designer:
The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.
Works from the Danish Cabinetmakers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects. The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.
Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognisable today. These lounge chairs are the perfect illustrations of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.