Axel Einar Hjorth dining table

This rare dining table, model “Värmdö” was designed by Axel Einar Hjorth and produced by Nordiska Kompaniet in Sweden during the 1930s. Crafted from solid pine, the table exemplifies Hjorth’s distinctive approach of merging modernist principles with traditional Scandinavian craftsmanship.

The design features a rectangular tabletop with a subtly overhanging edge, supported by two sturdy trestle-style legs. A horizontal stretcher, joined with a traditional mortise-and-tenon technique, enhances the table’s structural integrity while serving as a decorative element. The legs display delicate cut-out details, striking a balance between rustic construction and refined design. Over time, the pine has developed a warm patina that accentuates the natural grain and texture of the wood.

Axel Einar Hjorth was a pivotal figure in early 20th-century Swedish furniture design. Serving as chief designer for Nordiska Kompaniet from 1927 to 1938, he significantly influenced Swedish modernism. His oeuvre ranged from high-end Art Deco-inspired works to rustic collections like the “Sportstugemöbler” series, aimed at Swedish summer homes. The “Värmdö” table is representative of this latter tradition, embodying functional, sculptural qualities intended for leisure environments.

Nordiska Kompaniet, Sweden’s premier department store and furniture producer, was renowned for its dedication to quality and craftsmanship. In the 1930s, the company was a leader in Scandinavian design, known for blending traditional materials with modernist aesthetics.

The table measures 160 cm in width, 65 cm in depth, and 75 cm in height (63 x 25.6 x 29.5 inches), reflecting a harmonious fusion of rustic charm and modern design sensibility.