Rustic Solid Wood Naga Coffee Table, India early 20th century (sold)
Rustic Solid Wood Naga Coffee Table, India early 20th century (sold)
Naga coffee tables are a fusion of artistry and functionality. Handcrafted with utmost care, these unique pieces become a captivating centrepiece that adds a touch of cultural richness to any living space. The aesthetic is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity with a rich history and plenty of beauty.
Traditionally used as a raised bed built to withstand the harsh monsoon seasons and strong winds that blew across the hills of Nagaland, this table has as much charm as history. With its original patina, irregular shapes and lines with impacts left by the tools used to carve the wood, the history of this table is stamped in its texture. Traditional tables like this remarkable piece come from Nagaland, an Indian state located in the extreme northeast of India and are hand-carved from a single piece of wood, making each piece unique. The simple design of this table is based on the contemplation of nature and the acceptance of its imperfections. The geometric lines are not precise, and the edges are not defined, instead, imperfect materiality is the ideal of beauty. The large surface of the top showcases the natural qualities of the wood beautifully, as well as the gouged marks made by the creator. Part of the tabletop features a riveted metal bar that was presumably added to repair a crack in the wood or to simply strengthen the structure. The same riveted bar can be found on one of the legs as well. The wide, rounded legs in combination with the large surfaced top create a grounded look that still remains airy.
The natural roughness of the material is what gives this table its authenticity. It is a stunning piece rich in texture and history, and may serve a wide variety of roles in its future setting, such as a coffee table, a low bench or even as a bed. The design is a minimalist, but with all the warmth provided by the textures of the material coming from nature.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wood has some cracks and marks.
Dimensions:
73.62 in W x 19.29 in D x 8.85 in H
187 cm W x 49 cm D x 22.5 cm H
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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.