Hans Wegner side table

The very rare side table, model JH-589, designed by Hans J. Wegner and produced in 1953 by the esteemed cabinetmaker Johannes Hansen in Denmark, exemplifies the highest standards of Danish mid-century craftsmanship and design philosophy. This piece reflects both Wegner’s commitment to form and function and Hansen’s meticulous cabinetmaking tradition, resulting in a work that is at once sculpturally refined and materially honest.

Crafted from solid oak, the table features a warm honey-toned finish that enhances the wood’s natural grain and tonal variation. Over time, the oak has developed a rich patina, giving the table a subtle luster and visual warmth that speaks to its age and quality. The fine grain and soft texture of the oak are complemented by the simplicity of the design, allowing the natural material to remain central to the piece’s aesthetic presence.

The tabletop is composed of parallel wooden slats, uniformly spaced to create a visual rhythm and a sense of lightness. This slatted surface, while architecturally clean, introduces air and openness into what would otherwise be a solid form, demonstrating Wegner’s signature ability to imbue mass with levity. The slats also showcase the precision of the joinery, a testament to the handcraftsmanship of Johannes Hansen’s workshop, where each piece was constructed to exacting standards.

The rectangular form is supported by four slightly tapered, rounded legs, subtly angled outward. The leg design contributes to the table’s elevated and poised stance, balancing the horizontal plane of the top with vertical slenderness. The absence of ornamentation, combined with the careful proportions, allows the table’s refined detailing and material quality to speak on their own.

Hans Wegner (1914–2007), a central figure in Danish modern design, was known for his deep respect for craftsmanship and his innovative use of traditional woodworking techniques. The JH-589 table reflects his architectural training and his intuitive understanding of proportion, balance, and material. Wegner’s long-standing collaboration with Johannes Hansen was among the most fruitful in 20th-century Scandinavian furniture, producing numerous now-iconic pieces.

This example remains in excellent vintage condition. The surface has been well-preserved and exhibits only minor wear consistent with respectful use. The original patina remains intact, and the table retains its structural and visual integrity without signs of restoration or alteration.

The dimensions are 140 cm in length, 51 cm in depth, and 32 cm in height, which corresponds to approximately 55.1 inches long, 20.1 inches deep, and 12.6 inches high.