Danish Side Table with Storage Space, Denmark 1970s (sold)
Danish Side Table with Storage Space, Denmark 1970s (sold)
This unique solid pine table is quite elemental in its design despite its humble size. Functional and distinctive, this table stands out as a remarkable piece from the 1970s.
The design is very successful in balancing larger volumes with clean geometrical lines. The tabletop has a thick and round bowl with a well-defined rim on the top. This can be removed, revealing the hollow inside that functions as a storage space. The table is shaped like a goblet, with a thinner neck connecting the top and the bottom, showcasing the woodworking skills of Danish craftsmen. This table belongs in the so-called Golden Age of Scandinavian design that spanned from the 1930s to the 1970s, producing many of the designs now regarded as of the ‘classics’ of the Scandinavian Modern aesthetic.
As it can be expected from a solid wood piece of high quality, this table is quite heavy. The pine wood has aged beautifully and displays the grain within the wood. Thanks to the construction, the pattern is quite diverse throughout the body. Elegant and refined, yet delightfully simple in its core, this side table is a true Danish piece.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small dents and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
18.7 in D x 17 in H
47.5 cm D x 43.2 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 Cabinet-Makers' 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 cabinet makers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinet makers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinet makers 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 cabinet makers 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. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinet maker. ~H.