The “Svensk Fur” bench is a nod to modernist design with traditional Swedish craftsmanship. The design relays an insight about the society and culture in which it was produced: closeness to nature, the appreciation of a clutter-free environment and the value of quality handiwork.  

The Svensk Fur is often compared to the designs of Axel Einar Hjorth, even though it is an exceptional design on its own merit. Self-taught, Göran Malmvall was a highly skilled cabinetmaker with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. This bench holds a strong expression with its sturdy shaped, organic design, which is dominated by the natural beauty of the material. The backrest is formed by a straight line that slightly curves near the edges. This curvature is followed by the armrests that curve outwards at the ends, creating visual interest. The joinery is visible throughout the bench, and features both bolts and seamless wooden dovetail joinery which is always a sign of quality craftsmanship. The wide backrest showcases the solid pinewood’s beautiful pattern, reinforcing the rustic feel of the bench along with the conical legs that are gently tapered and tilted to support stability. The seat cushion was created specifically for this bench and is upholstered in a premium fabric with a pattern that adds to the rustic feel.

In 1898 Malmvall’s father, the master carpenter Karl Andersson started making well-made and durable furniture in his parents' home in the village of Berghem between Huskvarna and Gränna. Many pieces of furniture from Karl Andersson & Söner are classics and can be seen in the Nordic Museum in Stockholm, among other places.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The added cushion is upholstered in a premium fabric.

Dimensions:

47.24 in W x 23.42 in D x 34.05 in H; Seat height 16.92 in

120 cm W x 59.5 cm D x 86.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm

About the Designer:

Göran Malmvall (1917–2001) was the youngest son of the manufacturing company’s founder, Karl Andersson. He studied furniture design under Carl Malmsten and was involved with the family business from an early age until 1982, mainly in the capacity of an in-house furniture designer.

Self-taught, he was a highly skilled cabinet-maker with considerable technical expertise, and was renowned for the boldness of his innovations. His most notable designs include Svensk Fur, Svitjod and, not least, the KA 72 cabinet series, first created in 1972 and already a modern classic.

The manufacturer, Karl Andersson & Söner was established in 1898, when carpentry master Karl Andersson started to produce “durable and sustainable furniture” in his parents' home in the village of Berghem between Huskvarna and Gränna. Over a hundred years later, the historic company still manufactures quality furniture and designer furniture in their own modern factory in Huskvarna. ~H.