Grete Jalk dining table

This very rare extendable dining table was designed by Danish architect and furniture designer Grete Jalk and produced by P. Jeppesen’s Møbelfabrik in Denmark during the 1960s. It is crafted from richly figured rosewood, displaying the intense depth and variation of tone characteristic of this exotic hardwood, with hues ranging from warm reddish-brown to deep, almost black striations. The tabletop is particularly striking when extended, with a symmetrical book-matched veneer pattern that highlights the natural movement of the wood grain.

In its unextended state, the table features a rounded circular top, resting on four tapering cylindrical legs that subtly angle outward, providing both visual refinement and stability. When fully extended using additional leaves, the table transforms into an elongated oval with an elegant, uninterrupted surface, making it suitable for larger gatherings while retaining its sculptural and minimal silhouette.

The design emphasizes functional elegance and understated craftsmanship. The joinery and edge detailing are precise, with a subtle chamfer at the edge of the tabletop, lending the form a light and refined appearance. The additional leaves are seamlessly integrated, matching the rosewood tone and veneer patterning, which further enhances the sense of coherence and craftsmanship.

Grete Jalk (1920–2006) is recognized as one of the most important female designers of the Danish modern movement. She trained under Kaare Klint and was known for her experimental approach and pursuit of furniture that married aesthetic innovation with functional efficiency. Though best known for her molded plywood lounge chair, her broader oeuvre includes sophisticated wood furniture marked by formal purity and technical precision. P. Jeppesen’s Møbelfabrik, her frequent collaborator, was known for its close working relationships with prominent designers and for producing furniture to high artisanal standards.

This table has been completely restored and is in good vintage condition. The finish has been revived to reveal the full depth and complexity of the rosewood, while all functional components, including the extension mechanism, have been tested and adjusted for smooth operation.

Dimensions:
Diameter (closed): 136 cm / 53.5 inches
Length (extended): 245 cm / 96.5 inches
Height: 72 cm / 28.3 inches