Round Art Deco Coffee Table with Intarsia, The Netherlands 1930s (sold)
Round Art Deco Coffee Table with Intarsia, The Netherlands 1930s (sold)
The Amsterdamse School defined Dutch architecture and design from as early as the 1910s. As this decorative table shows, the style has roots in Expressionist architecture, borrowing elements from the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) and Art Deco design aesthetic.
With its round and expressive forms, this coffee table is a medley of styles featuring elements that are characteristic of both the Art Deco and the Amsterdamse School design movements. The most apparent element of the design is its round tabletop with beautiful intarsia. Adorned with a ribbed border, the beautifully crafted intarsia combines different types of wood in a rhythmic, geometrical pattern. From light to very dark, the colour variation and the difference between the individual patterns of the inlaid woods is wide, resulting in an arresting look. The table masterfully combines the richly decorated Art Deco style with the much more somber elements that are characteristic of the Amsterdamse School. This is evident in the simple lower structure with four straight legs that are adorned with layered wooden parts and a round lower shelf. Ultimately, the design of this coffee table is a medley of decorative and utilitarian elements in perfect harmony. In the Netherlands, the Amsterdam style pursued functionality, purity and simplicity, while Art Deco was much more boisterous; and yet, this table manages to show off how both era’s best qualities can go together seamlessly.
The Amsterdam School style spread beyond architecture to encompass interior design from the 1920s, resulting in one of a kind pieces such as this solid wood coffee table. Interest revived in the 1970s as well as at the beginning of the 21st century as these handmade, high quality pieces possess timeless beauty.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
30.9 in Ø x 20.27 in H
78.5 cm Ø x 51.5 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.