A Pair of Rectangular Branco and Preto Side Tables in Caviuna Wood, Brazil 1960s (sold)


































































A Pair of Rectangular Branco and Preto Side Tables in Caviuna Wood, Brazil 1960s (sold)
Designed in a rational and geometric way, this pair of handmade Branco and Preto side tables have an open and elegant appearance.
Both tables are made of a combination of solid and veneer caviuna wood with a beautiful grain. Caviuna is a Brazilian timber tree yielding a heavy, hard dark-coloured wood streaked with black play that is also visible on this pair. These tables feature glass tops that are effortlessly embedded in the wooden frame adding modernism to the design. Underneath the glass tops are wooden shelves, which have a somewhat floating appearance thanks to the extending shelves that align with the tops. In combination with the recessed legs, these tables have a simple, refined look.
The strong lines and proportions are light and simple at the same time, which is a returning characteristic of the work of the Brazilian design duo, Branco and Preto.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wooden veneer has some cracks / marks on one of the bottom plates.
Dimensions:
25.99 in W x 39.38 in D x 21.07 in H
66 cm W x 100 cm D x 53.3 cm H
Literature:
Branco e Preto: Uma história de design brasileiro nos anos 50, Marlene Milan Acayaba, Instituto Lina Bo e Pietro Maria Bardi, 1994, p 95 (drawing of item), p 115. (similar item)
Branco e Preto, Marcelo Aflalo, Paralaxe editora, 2005, p. 5 (similar item)
About the designers:
São Paulo 1950. In a time when communication wasn’t abundant and import was still rare, a group of young architects and idealists gathered to solve a new problem. How to decorate the projects that came out of the group's drawing boards with furniture that represented the architecture they practiced. Enthusiastically they welcomed the idea of group member Roberto Aflalo: to create a store and studio that would sell furniture with a modern design, while using Brazilian raw material and making sure it had an impeccable finish. Read more about Branco and Preto. ~H.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The 1940s in Sweden were defined by a quiet but deliberate design philosophy rooted in function, clarity, and craftsmanship. As the country transitioned through wartime austerity into postwar renewal, designers and cabinetmakers turned toward a more humanist modernism that emphasized warmth over severity. This approach is exemplified by Swedish Modern design movement, which focused on creating durable, accessible, and elegant furniture for the masses.
This birch side table showcases sensibility through its simple yet perfectly balanced construction. Furniture of this period often showcased the natural qualities of woods. Birch, with its golden hue and intricate grain, became a central material in this movement, prized for its ability to bring light and texture into the Scandinavian home. This table’s top features softly rounded corners and edges. The turned legs are slightly splayed to provide stability, connected by stretchers that form a low geometric rhythm beneath the tabletop. The craftsmanship is evident in the way each joint is fitted cleanly, while the organic character of the wood is emphasized. The table reflects the Swedish preference for comfort and approachability. The warm, honeyed tone of the wood further enhances its sculptural simplicity, capturing the sense of connection to nature that defined Scandinavian design of the 20th century.
Beyond its function, the table represents the enduring values of Swedish Modernism, where honesty of material and attention to human use were paramount. In its restraint and balance, this table embodies the essence of that philosophy, an object both utilitarian and timeless, made to age gracefully within everyday life.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The table has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the table may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
33.46 in W x 20.87 in D x 22.83 in H
85 cm W x 53 cm D x 58 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect David Rosén worked alongside renowned designers such as Axel Einar Hjorth and Josef Frank at Nordiska Kompaniet (NK), one of Sweden’s most respected design houses. Rosén crafted this beautiful table for NK in 1938.
Made from pine, this table exudes a lovely charm and robust aesthetic that is characteristic of the era. In early 20th century design, the use of wood held a special significance; it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasized the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. Moreover, in a rather distinctive way, softness and tradition merge in this coffee table. While it is elemental thanks to the solid pine and interesting construction, the roundness of its top and its elegantly sculpted base still provide a sense of gentleness. It is this well measured tension between the shapes that make the design eye-catching and infinitely interesting. Organic and natural materials often take pride of place in Swedish design, reflecting the Scandinavian and Nordic countries’ relationship to nature. The solid pine wood of this table is not overworked, its natural grain stands out and serves as ornamentation in itself. With minimalism comes timelessness, a guarantee that this coffee table will never go out of style.
With its strong and distinctive details, this table model is a perfect accent table, while also being capable to complement its surroundings. This piece could fit well in a modern interior, as well as in a minimalist or rustic space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
28.74 in W x 21.65 in D x 23.62 in H
73 cm W x 55 cm D x 60 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish design is known for its meticulous balance of classic and timeless appearance. This coffee table showcases exactly that - the top with a beautiful design reflecting an enduring appeal, together with the combination of the traditional arrangement of the legs. The work of Søren Jean Larsen displays excellent craftsmanship, with his ability to balance out heavy materials that in the end display a serene and light vision.
Hemmed around by a beautiful oak border, at the heart of the piece lies its true charismatic point: a circular stoneware inlay, composed of glazed ceramic tiles. Contributing to its organic look, the unique tabletop features abstract forms shimmering in earthy tones of deep olive green, amber, and hazelnut colours, all adding to the warm, autumnal atmosphere of the table. The asymmetry of the forms becomes apparent in the varying shades and textures of the inlay, the contrast of materials creating visual interest and a striking, unique character. While somewhat abstract, the conscious placement of the ceramic pieces is palpable in the composition of the colours and forms. The swirls of the glazed ceramic are especially visible with the amber colours emerging from the centre outwards. Underneath the top, the weight of the table is balanced out in four, slightly inward-tilted legs that end in a stable and distinctive X-shape. The construction of the frame, made of solid oak, demonstrates a lovely grain within the wood that has aged beautifully.
This table by Søren Jean Larsen is a distinguished example of Scandinavian design, perfect for both modern and eclectic interiors with a strong emphasis on practicality as well as exceptional craftsmanship. Its durable stoneware top ensures longevity as does its solid wood structure, making sure to lighten spaces and cater to heartwarming times over coffee and tea in the early afternoons for years to come.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
50.98 in ⌀ x 20.27 in H
129.5 cm ⌀ x 51.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish sculptor and industrial designer Jens Quistgaard (1919–2008) had a distinguished career in Denmark and the United States, and was especially active during the 1950s and '60s. Initially trained as a sculptor by his father, Jens Quistgaard expanded his skills by learning from carpenters and metal smiths, all contributing to his versatility as a master craftsman with the expertise to combine materials and techniques in novel ways. Quistgaard quickly became known for his fluid lines and for using unusual materials, often in combination. His most renowned and commercially successful works were created for the American company Dansk Designs. The company introduced Quistgaard and his minimalist Nordic design aesthetic to the United States, significantly contributing to the American appreciation of Danish Modern design. By the late 1950s, Quistgaard's work was synonymous with modern living. This teak side table is a clear example of his philosophy and clear aesthetic choices.
Intriguing and fantastical, the variety of forms Jens Quistgaard created expanded the vocabulary of functional design, calling on an array of familiar references, including natural shapes. This side table has precise forms without ornamentation, showcasing Jens Quistgaard's high-quality craftsmanship skills. Humble in its material and size, this table draws attention thanks to its distinctive look and personality. It has a round reversible top, which is characterised by the wood's grain and warm colours. The circular pattern has a constant rhythm and visually creates a beautiful alternation between darker and lighter tones. The pattern does not overwhelm the table - instead, it is an understated but clever addition to the design. The four legs are joined together by cross stretchers, which also serve the purpose of holding the top in place, gently letting it rest with no need for additional joinery or screws. This manner of combining the two separate parts is a detail that certainly derives from Quistgaard's sculptural training. The legs are slightly larger at the bottom, providing stability and visual interest. As can be expected from Danish design and craftsmanship, visually appealing elements usually also serve a functional role. In this case, the wooden elements under the table reinforce the stability of the structure in this ingenious manner, with the table top being supported gently by the legs.
Throughout his career, Quistgaard received numerous awards, including the Lunning Prize in 1954, the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion in 1958, and Munch's Der Goldene Löffel in 1962. His work has been exhibited in museums worldwide, such as the Danish Museum of Art and Design in Copenhagen, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and the National Museum in Stockholm. This teak side table showcases Quistgaard's skills and adds an elegant touch to any living space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
22.24 in ⌀ x 17.12 in H
56.5 cm ⌀ x 43.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Swedish mid-century modern design remains popular today due to its clean lines, functionalism, and timeless aesthetic. Ultimately, Swedish mid-century modern design offers a combination of beauty and practicality that remains highly sought after even in contemporary design.
With its distinctive structure, this table epitomizes the research for new systems of joinery during the mid-century era, when the material and the design would become the lead factors in achieving stability, durability, and of course, an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Therefore, the proportions of this table are finely tuned to successfully combine a perfect angle of inclination between the legs and the top. Lodged in the heart of the oblique legs, a hexagonal piece of wood maintains the structure with brass fittings. The use of the sizeable pieces of wood gives this table an elemental feeling, showing off its beautiful grain and colour variety. Furthermore, the combination of the materials - wood and stone - creates a stunning contrast that makes this piece stand out. The wood’s warm tone creates a sense of elegance and sophistication, while the modern stone top is smooth to the touch, adding a sense of solidity and durability to the overall design. Still, the most striking feature of this table is its oblique legs. They dominate the overall impression of the piece as they are angled to create a sense of movement and dynamism, while also providing excellent stability and support for the tabletop.
Swedish designers of this era aimed to create furniture and home decor that was both aesthetically pleasing and practical, with a strong emphasis on the user experience. This style has become synonymous with Scandinavian design and is still sought after today for its timeless appeal and quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The tabletop is a later addition to the base.
Dimensions:
39.37 in W x 24.6 in D x 25.19 in H
100 cm W x 62.5 cm D x 64 cm H
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Danish furniture design possesses a homely tone in nature and character. The best works are characterized by the will to produce genuine, technical workmanship, a sound critical attitude to untimely modernism. There is also a natural desire to take up the problems for renewed investigation and solutions in accordance to the exigencies of the times.
Thanks to these characteristics and attitudes, Danish pieces like this coffee table have an outstanding balance with a classic, timeless design. With a clear statement of simplicity, quality and respect for materials, this table is a great example of Danish Modern design. The rectangular tabletop is made of exotic wood, yet it has a light impression. The large surface shows off the pattern of the wood, including diverse swirls and a large colour variety ranging from light to dark brown. Countering the restrained shape of the top, the legs, and feet have an intricate structure with gently rounded edges. The feet are connected thus the look resembles the sledge style. The standout feature however, is the pair of brass braces; this diagonal reinforcement is not only an important structural feature, it is also a visually appealing detail that gives character to this coffee table. Looking beneath the top, the elaborate wooden structure becomes visible, showing the cabinetmaker’s expert skill and knowledge.
The combination of the beautiful exotic wood and the brass creates the modern look that Danish Mid-Century design is coveted for. The quality of the execution leaves no questions behind, making this table a stylish and timeless piece ideal for any interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
54.92 in W x 19.48 in D x 18.89 in H
139.5 cm W x 49.5 cm D x 48 cm H
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Designed by Roland Wilhelmsson, this “Kvadrat” table is from the era when Swedish design and culture started attracting design-conscious international buyers on a large scale. The model’s design is dated to 1972, and this particular table was manufactured in Huskvarna, where the manufactory still operates, for more than four generations now.
Swedish furniture and interior design culture went through dramatic changes during the 1970s. The effects of the late 1960s’ rebellious view of design, production and consumption had an impact in the form of freer furnishings and resource-efficient furniture in simpler materials. In the mid-1970s, rustic pine furniture often in oversized dimensions - such as this table - suddenly became the highest fashion. Therefore, the local and resource-efficient craft received a renaissance. This “Kvadrat” coffee table has a look that is rustic, crisp, and geometric at the same time, which is a rare feat to behold. Essentially made of five rectangular solid pine parts, the structure is very minimalistic at first sight. It is so paired down and minimal, that it is as close to perfection as any piece of furniture can be. With minimalism comes timelessness, a guarantee that this coffee table will never go out of style. Organic and natural materials often take pride of place in Scandinavian design, reflecting the Scandinavian and Nordic countries’ relationship to nature. The solid pine wood of this table is not overworked, its natural grain stands out and serves as ornamentation in itself.
Karl Andersson & Söner has been manufacturing quality, designer furniture since 1898. Karl Andersson was known for his creativity, boundless enthusiasm and dynamism, and solemnly undertook to manufacture nothing but "well-made furniture, durable and sustainable". Combining a stark and precise minimalism with a high degree of functionality, this Kvadrat coffee table can be introduced into any environment, either by blending in amongst an overall minimalist interior or standing out as an interesting contrast to something more maximalist or periodic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
38.77 in W x 38.77 in D x 17.32 in H
98.5 cm W 98.5 cm D 44 cm H
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Created with mobility and flexibility in mind, nesting tables can be organized in an unlimited variety of stylish and functional configurations. Scandinavian models of the mid-century era – as these tables showcase – combined their functionality with the unmistakeable touch of Nordic design.
The triangular shape of the tabletops immediately stands out. This silhouette, resembling a guitar pick, was particularly favoured by Danish designers, such as Poul Thorsbjerg Jensen. The pieces of this unique set of tables contain three individual tables that are graduated in size so that they may be stacked on top of one another. Each piece is made of solid wood with beautiful grain and pattern that is even more noticeable when the individual tables are next to each other. The different sizes of these nesting tables serve both functional and visual goals; they can conveniently be used individually or nested together to form a coffee table, or they can be separated and laid around the room to form a cohesive interior style. Additionally, a trio of nesting tables bring added depth and cosiness, and it also follows the revered rule of three – a feng shui principle that encourages 'groups of three' to open and relax a space. The versatility and functionality of this set is completed by the Scandinavian design: soft, rounded edges and craftsmanship characterize the tables, supported by the sturdy legs.
The versatility of nesting tables makes them incredibly practical and functional. They are a perfect choice for small spaces as they allow to maintain a clean and open interior design without giving up comfort. Whether nested together or placed next to each other, this set is sure to bring functional style and quality to any space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
Large:
19.29 in W x 18.5 in D x 15.35 in H
49 cm W x 47 cm D x 39 cm H
Medium:
15.75 in W x 14.56 in D x 13.19 in H
40 cm W x 37 cm D x 33.5 cm H
Small:
11.22 in W x 11.02 in D x 11.22 in H
28.5 cm W x 28 cm D x 28.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 3,000 usd / eur
This side table is a classic piece of Scandinavian modern design, therefore it comes as no surprise that this model was awarded the Gold Medal at the California Fair in 1960. Folke Ohlsson was a decorated designer, he won a Gold Medal at the 1951 Milan Triennale and was given the Good Design Award by the Museum of Modern Art in New York. His furniture was also one of the first exhibits featured at Stanford’s art museum.
“Frisco” was part of the 'Bra Bohag' production from Tingströms Furnitures, Sweden. ‘Bra bohag’ means‘ good furniture in Swedish, and behind the expression was the lobby organization for better-designed everyday furniture for Swedish homes in the 1950-60s. It consisted of several furniture designers and producers, among them Tingströms AB. This solid wood model has a beautiful veneer that stands out thanks to the simple, uncluttered design. The top features a raised “lip” or edge, a playful and practical design element. Early in his design career Ohlsson almost exclusively designed in natural beech blond wood until critics quickly forced him to move to darker walnut and teak woods. This model was also influenced by this, breaking with the light Swedish modern aesthetic. However, the structure with stretchers set parallel on the legs is still very characteristic of Swedish mid-century modern design, not to mention the top quality.
Folke Ohlsson was one of the first Swedish designers who managed to bring “Swedish Modern” design to the United States’ market successfully. According to the story, when Ohlsson arrived in the United States, he took his suitcase and cardboard to hotels all over the country inviting salesmen, department stores, and decorators to view his miniature designs and watch as he disassembled and reassembled his chair design. He quickly became notorious for his patented “knock-down” construction that reduced shipping and storage costs and helped to make the Swedish company Dux a household name in the USA.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
30.11 in W x 22.04 in D x 20.86 in H
76.5 cm W x 56 cm D x 53 cm H
About the designer:
Folke Ohlsson was a born in Malmö, Sweden in 1919 and died in Atherton California in 2003. Folke studied at the School of the Gothenburg Society of Industrial Design before he began working for the Swedish furniture and bedding manufacturer, Dux. In 1950, he moved to the United States with only a suitcase full of clothes and an exact miniature scaled model furniture of his own design. He also carried a cardboard that contained the broken-down components of one of his chairs.
Many other Swedish designers tried to bring “Swedish Modern” design to the United States market, most notably at the 1939 World’s Fair, but all doing so “haphazardly” Ohlsson once claimed in the Vestkusten newspaper. According to Ohlsson, when he arrived in the United States he took his suitcase and cardboard to hotels all over the country inviting salesmen, department stores, and decorators to view his miniature designs and watch as he disassembled and reassembled his chair. He quickly became notorious for his patented “knock-down” construction that reduced shipping and storage costs and helped to make Dux a household name in the USA. Early in his design career Ohlsson almost exclusively designed in natural beech blond wood until critics quickly forced him to move to darker walnut and teak woods.
At its peak production in 1955, the Dux line was sold in all 50 states including Alaska and Hawaii and grossed upwards of $1,000,000. Folke Ohlsson won a Gold Medal at the 1951 Milan Triennale and was given the Good Design Award by the Museum of Modern Art in New York. His furniture was one of the first exhibits featured at Stanford’s art museum. Ohlsson’s pioneering knock-down concept revolutionized furniture production and transportation and lead to the birth of global companies such as IKEA today.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
The “Spira” is a collection by Swedish product designer Lisa Hilland. This side table is a contemporary design with a poetic twist, combining modern high-tech production techniques with artisan quality craftsmanship.
As it is with many contemporary pieces, this table balances on the line between sculpture and furniture. This sculptural object, reminiscent of a growing forest in nature, shows quality and attention down to the smallest detail. The line’s Swedish name, spira meaning spire, is self-explanatory, as the structure comprised of small, connecting oak spires. The individual spires are arranged in three levels in a wave pattern, which creates a sense of movement, especially on the top. The round, smooth tabletop is perfect to complement the design and to serve a functional role. Apart from its unique spire structure, this table features a lower level that was created for a pet, hence the cosy throw rug. This is a delightful feature, and has never gone into production, making this model exclusive and unique. With the Spira collection, Hilland highlights the wood's natural beauty and character with a strong focus on quality, maximum sustainability and environmental care. Spira is therefore manufactured exclusively from high-quality and environmentally friendly, socially responsible and economically viable forestry. Thanks to its outstanding design and Hilland’s emphasis on sustainability, the Spira series earned the Plaza Interior’s award of honour in 2021.
Swedish furniture manufacturer, Wigells, has been manufacturing furniture for more than 140 years. They are best known for their wide range of wooden pieces. Everything is still manufactured in Malmbäck, Småland, where with great experience and craftsmanship, they give shape to high-quality pieces.
Condition:
In very good condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
29.33 in D x 29.52 in H
74.5 cm D x 75 cm H
About the designer:
Lisa Hilland (1973-) creates contemporary design with a poetic twist, combining modern high-tech production techniques with artisan quality craftsmanship. After graduating from Central St Martin's College of Art, she worked ten years as a designer in London before setting up her own studio in Sweden in 2005. Her current clients include renowned furniture producers such as Konsthantverk, IKEA, Gärsnäs, Gemla, Design House Stockholm and Svenskt Tenn. Lisa Hilland also founded her very own design range of furniture and accessories, Mylhta in 2018.
“As a designer, I am constantly exploring materials and how they influence our perception of an object. Natural materials are close to my heart, and using them in a careful, sustainable way, creating long-lasting design. In my work I am aim to enhance a material’s natural qualities, celebrating its specific character, functions and beauty. Excellent design triggers our emotions and according to me, materials have a great part to play while designing - or as I call it - giving an object a soul that can be loved”.
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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.