Mid-Century Rustic Solid Wood Coffee Table, Europe ca 1950s (sold)
Mid-Century Rustic Solid Wood Coffee Table, Europe ca 1950s (sold)
In European mid-century design, there are some common elements that define the continent’s furniture design of the era. Most importantly, 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.
Mid-Century Modern represented a break with the traditional past: design-wise, furnishings were often a rejection of Victorian, Colonial, and other historical influences, especially the pseudo-historical use of ornamentation. In comparison, furniture of the 50s and 60s are generally more pared-down, smaller in scale, and uncluttered with unnecessary ornament: on this front, the movement shared qualities with the efforts of the Bauhaus designers’ vehement rejection of ornamentation. This coffee table has a strong elemental feel to it, which is a result of its thick tabletop and sturdy legs. The focus is on the material, letting the beautiful qualities of the wood stand out. The circular pattern of the wood is the result of the trunk being used without cutting it into pieces, thus showing the tree’s year rings. This elemental rusticity is the design’s main charm and also why it is certain to stand out with its hand carved edges.
This coffee table follows the fundamental mid-century modern design principles both aesthetically and technically. 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 cracks and chisel marks elevate the rustic look, while the height perfectly balances out the thickness of the wood.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks.
Dimensions:
35.43 in ⌀ x 15.55 in H
90 cm ⌀ x 39.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet were a French design duo who worked together during the 20th century. They were known for their innovative use of natural, sustainable materials, including rope, wicker, and bamboo. The duo’s work was heavily influenced by the Modernist movement, which sought to create functional and streamlined designs that were accessible to a wider audience.
Audoux & Minet’s pieces are characterised by a strong sense of craftsmanship, with each piece being handmade by the designers themselves or by skilled artisans. This dining table showcases a long rectangular top finished in warm wood veneer, its broad uninterrupted surface displays the grain. The top sits above thick base covered in a tightly woven natural fibre that introduces an immediate depth of tone and texture. The fibre flows across the supports in beautiful braided patterns, emphasising the bold and solid look. The rope is made into a geometric pattern which breaks up the woven surface to create a beautiful rhythm within the structure. The contrast of materials is central to the table’s character: the smooth, richly grained wooden top stands out against the coarse, rough and natural fibre below, allowing two very different surfaces to define the piece.
Today, Audoux and Minet's designs are highly sought after by collectors and are considered important examples of mid-century modern design. Furniture pieces like this table stand out through their unique textures, and their materials, as well as their classic charm.
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 material, the item has some marks and scratches on the tabletop. Additional imperfections like chips, dents or discolouration may be present.
Dimensions:
67.12 in W x 33.46 in D x 29.13 in H
170.5 cm W x 85 cm D x 74 cm H