Axel Einar Hjorth dining table

This rare extendable dining table was designed by Axel Einar Hjorth and produced by Nordiska Kompaniet in their Nyköping workshops in Sweden. The table reflects the Swedish Functionalist ideals of the 1930s, combining clarity of structure with a deep respect for natural materials and craftsmanship.

The table features a rectangular top with softly rounded corners, veneered in richly patterned elm root with a highly figured surface. The elm burl veneer displays a complex, swirling grain pattern that lends the tabletop a decorative and organic visual character. The veneer is precisely bookmatched across the tabletop and extension leaves, emphasizing symmetry and craftsmanship. The outer edge of the tabletop is framed in solid oak, subtly contrasting the more vibrant elm surface. The apron and legs are also made of oak, with the legs square in section and slightly tapered toward the base, reinforcing the table’s clean, architectural character.

The extension mechanism incorporates two leaves, allowing the table to expand significantly in length. When extended, the table transforms from a compact dining table into a generously proportioned banquet format, retaining its aesthetic balance and constructional integrity throughout its range. The engineering is precise and durable, typical of NK’s workshop production.

Axel Einar Hjorth (1888–1959) was a leading Swedish designer and architect who held the position of chief designer at Nordiska Kompaniet from 1927. His work bridged Nordic classicism and early modernism, and he was instrumental in defining a distinctly Swedish interpretation of Functionalism during the interwar period. Hjorth’s designs are marked by their straightforward forms, elegant proportions, and sensitive use of wood veneers.

Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) was Sweden’s foremost department store and a hub of modern design innovation during the 20th century. Their in-house workshops in Nyköping produced high-quality custom and limited-run furniture by leading designers, maintaining exacting standards in material selection and joinery.

The table measures 150.5 cm in length (59.3 in) and extends to a total of 271 cm (106.7 in). The depth is 75.5 cm (29.7 in), and the height is 73.5 cm (28.9 in). The table is in good vintage condition with minor signs of age and use appropriate for its age.