Carved Stained Oak Coffee Table on Tripod Legs, Europe ca 1940s (sold)
Carved Stained Oak Coffee Table on Tripod Legs, Europe ca 1940s (sold)
While often defined by a few main characteristics, mid-century furniture pieces are wonderfully versatile both in materials and forms. This stained oak coffee table is a prime example of this as it is full of personality showcasing more decorative elements than most, similar designs of the era.
The round carved tabletop is the evident main feature of this design. The elaborate carvings feature seven circles (possibly for placing plates or glasses on them) accompanied by grapes, leafs and wines. 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 most European mid-century furniture. In this case, the carving lends the table an almost folk charm that is an easy way to bring personality into a contemporary space. Thanks in great part to an emphasis on wood, this table has avoided associations with cold industrialization and machine aesthetics of the era. European designers’ predilection for curvilinear shapes and certain woods, often oak, is evident in this coffee table’s sinuous circular top and solid wood body. The tripod club legs support compliment the round but thin top bringing balance to the design.
The carved tabletop and the otherwise simple design serves the purpose of showing the understated beauty of the wood and the endless possibilities under the hands of an expert craftsman. Furthermore, oak is an especially durable hardwood that is extremely multi-faceted with a beautiful grain and texture as seen on both the tabletop and on the legs.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
23.03 in ⌀ x 17.71 in H
58.5 cm ⌀ x 45 cm H