Danish Cabinetmaker Oak Desk with Drawers, Denmark ca 1950s



















Danish Cabinetmaker Oak Desk with Drawers, Denmark ca 1950s
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Firm believers in Functionalism, Danish designers and cabinetmakers avoided short-lived aesthetic trends alike, concentrating on crafting with quality materials instead. This desk is characterized by its functionalist design combined with a modern expression – the epitome of Danish mid-century modern design philosophy.
Danish cabinetmakers were just as thorough and artistic about the proportions, the construction, the function, and about the style. With a clear statement of simplicity, quality and respect for materials, this table is a great example of Danish Modern design. The structure is composed of oak with a gorgeous grain and colour. The tabletop offers plenty of functional space with tapering sides and two drawers with two compartments that can be opened from both sides. This feature of the drawers’ evidences the functionalist mindset that can be traced in almost every element of the lower structure. The slanted support braces are attached to the top and to the side stretchers that are placed at the middle of the legs. As a result, the sleek tapered legs stand out, creating a stylish, light look. Cabinetmakers were masters of creating light looking designs from solid wood, showcasing their mastery.
The functional elements aiding stability and utilitarian use also serve an aesthetic role, adding to the clean, architectural precision of this desk. From the teak top to the oak lower structure, each element shows the manufacturer’s expert skill and knowledge in woodworking.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
62.99 in W x 31.49 in D x 28.54 in H
160 cm W x 80 cm D x 72.5 cm H
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Generally, Czech mid-century modern designs tend to be more sober than their French, German, American, and even Scandinavian counterparts. However, works by Pavel Novak are an exception - as evidenced by this large desk. While his genius is evident in his work, the Czech designer’s repertoire is finally starting to surface, and as this piece shows, we are lucky to witness it.
Novak often worked with a gouge, that originally never had any other vocation than to furnish his farm. Part of this table is made of hand gouged oak, which is in itself a time-consuming and rare woodcarving technique. While most woodworkers offer help with fixing gouges in wood, Novak used the technique to create this rustic looking body that can be considered to be a functional sculpture. Thanks to the unique, hand-carved texture, the table is one of a kind, with an inimitable pattern .
This solid wood table, with its natural finish, exemplifies the enduring charm and warmth that mid-century design continues to bring to contemporary interiors, underscoring the timeless appeal of this iconic design era.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The desk has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
88.98 in W x 26.78 in D x 39.97 in H
226 cm W x 68 cm D x 101.5 cm H