Bench

This rare and unusually large semi-circular bench is constructed from solid pine and was likely produced in Sweden during the 1960s. Although the designer remains unidentified, the bench’s construction and materiality suggest connections to Swedish rustic modernism and the expressive functionalist traditions prevalent in mid-century Scandinavian public and institutional furniture.

The bench is composed of five curved, laminated pine segments carefully joined to create a smooth, continuous arc. The seat surface is broad and flat, made from thick solid pine boards that reveal pronounced growth rings and tonal variations across the grain. The wood’s natural warmth is enhanced by the gentle sheen of the original finish, which has developed a soft patina over time. Supporting the seat are three robust, slightly trapezoidal legs cut from solid wood, set at angles that follow the curvature of the seat, providing both stability and visual harmony.

The low height and sweeping form indicate the bench may have been intended for use in a public or contemplative architectural space such as a gallery, civic building, or educational institution. Its honest use of materials and visible construction details—including dowel joints and lamination seams—reflect a design philosophy rooted in material truth and simplicity, core tenets of Nordic design culture in the postwar period.

The bench remains structurally sound, with minor surface wear such as edge marks, scuffs, and darkened areas on the legs consistent with age and use. The pine retains its natural finish, and all joints are stable with no signs of movement or repair.

The dimensions measure 260 cm in width, 130 cm in depth, and 41.5 cm in height, approximately 102.4 inches wide, 51.2 inches deep, and 16.3 inches high.