Jens Quistgaard Teak Tray Table, Denmark 1960s
















Jens Quistgaard Teak Tray Table, Denmark 1960s
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish sculptor and industrial designer Jens Quistgaard (1919–2008) had a distinguished career in Denmark and the United States, and was especially active during the 1950s and '60s. Initially trained as a sculptor by his father, Jens Quistgaard expanded his skills by learning from carpenters and metal smiths, all contributing to his versatility as a master craftsman with the expertise to combine materials and techniques in novel ways. Quistgaard quickly became known for his fluid lines and for using unusual materials, often in combination. His most renowned and commercially successful works were created for the American company Dansk Designs. The company introduced Quistgaard and his minimalist Nordic design aesthetic to the United States, significantly contributing to the American appreciation of Danish Modern design. By the late 1950s, Quistgaard's work was synonymous with modern living. This teak side table is a clear example of his philosophy and clear aesthetic choices.
Intriguing and fantastical, the variety of forms Jens Quistgaard created expanded the vocabulary of functional design, calling on an array of familiar references, including natural shapes. This side table has precise forms without ornamentation, showcasing Jens Quistgaard's high-quality craftsmanship skills. Humble in its material and size, this table draws attention thanks to its distinctive look and personality. It has a round reversible top, which is characterised by the wood's grain and warm colours. The circular pattern has a constant rhythm and visually creates a beautiful alternation between darker and lighter tones. The pattern does not overwhelm the table - instead, it is an understated but clever addition to the design. The four legs are joined together by cross stretchers, which also serve the purpose of holding the top in place, gently letting it rest with no need for additional joinery or screws. This manner of combining the two separate parts is a detail that certainly derives from Quistgaard's sculptural training. The legs are slightly larger at the bottom, providing stability and visual interest. As can be expected from Danish design and craftsmanship, visually appealing elements usually also serve a functional role. In this case, the wooden elements under the table reinforce the stability of the structure in this ingenious manner, with the table top being supported gently by the legs.
Throughout his career, Quistgaard received numerous awards, including the Lunning Prize in 1954, the Neiman Marcus Award for Distinguished Service in the Field of Fashion in 1958, and Munch's Der Goldene Löffel in 1962. His work has been exhibited in museums worldwide, such as the Danish Museum of Art and Design in Copenhagen, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and the National Museum in Stockholm. This teak side table showcases Quistgaard's skills and adds an elegant touch to any living space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
22.24 in ⌀ x 17.12 in H
56.5 cm ⌀ x 43.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Created with mobility and flexibility in mind, nesting tables can be organized in an unlimited variety of stylish and functional configurations. Scandinavian models of the mid-century era – as these tables showcase – combined their functionality with the unmistakeable touch of Nordic design.
The triangular shape of the tabletops immediately stands out. This silhouette, resembling a guitar pick, was particularly favoured by Danish designers, such as Poul Thorsbjerg Jensen. The pieces of this unique set of tables contain three individual tables that are graduated in size so that they may be stacked on top of one another. Each piece is made of solid wood with beautiful grain and pattern that is even more noticeable when the individual tables are next to each other. The different sizes of these nesting tables serve both functional and visual goals; they can conveniently be used individually or nested together to form a coffee table, or they can be separated and laid around the room to form a cohesive interior style. Additionally, a trio of nesting tables bring added depth and cosiness, and it also follows the revered rule of three – a Feng Shui principle that encourages 'groups of three' to open and relax a space. The versatility and functionality of this set is completed by the Scandinavian design: soft, rounded edges and craftsmanship characterize the tables, supported by the sturdy legs.
The versatility of nesting tables makes them incredibly practical and functional. They are a perfect choice for small spaces as they allow maintaining a clean and open interior design without giving up comfort. Whether nested together or placed next to each other, this set is sure to bring functional style and quality to any space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The tables have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the material, minor marks and scratches are present.
Dimensions:
Largest: 47 cm W x 46.5 cm D x 40 cm H
Middle: 39 cm W x 40 cm D x 34 cm H
Smallest: 29 cm W x 29 cm D x 28 cm H