Desk

This rare desk, produced in 1945 by Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) in Sweden, is a finely crafted piece that exemplifies the refined material palette and formal elegance characteristic of Swedish furniture design during the mid-20th century. Though the designer remains unidentified, the desk clearly reflects the high design and production standards upheld by NK, a premier department store and manufacturer known for collaborating with some of Scandinavia’s most notable architects and designers.

Constructed from solid mahogany, the desk displays a rich reddish-brown hue with deep, linear grain patterns that animate the surface. The wood has been carefully finished to a smooth sheen, revealing the inherent quality of the material. Brass detailing is used selectively yet effectively—appearing on the drawer handles and the tapered leg caps—providing a warm metallic contrast that complements the depth of the mahogany and adds a note of sophistication to the overall design.

The composition is symmetrical and composed. The rectangular tabletop is flanked by two raised side compartments, each containing small drawers that offer discreet storage for personal or office items. These raised sections are integrated into the desk’s form, creating a balanced architectural silhouette. Below these compartments, a central open space provides additional storage or display area. The slender legs taper elegantly and terminate in brass-capped feet, lending the piece a sense of visual lightness and refined structural resolution.

The desk measures 125.5 cm in width, 71 cm in depth, and 86.5 cm in overall height (49.4 x 28 x 34.1 inches), with a working surface height of 74.5 cm (29.3 inches). These proportions are functional and ergonomically appropriate for writing or light office work, while the elevated compartments add both character and utility without compromising the surface area.

Condition is very good, with only minor indications of use. The wood surface retains its polish, with a few light scratches and surface marks that are consistent with age and respectful use. The brass has developed a natural patina, adding depth and visual texture without detracting from its appearance or functionality.

As an object produced by Nordiska Kompaniet, this desk represents the intersection of quality craftsmanship and refined modernist design sensibility. The piece serves not only as a practical workspace but also as a historical artifact of Swedish mid-century design, blending traditional cabinetmaking with modern aesthetics in a restrained and luxurious manner.