Axel Einar Hjorth sofa

The Utö sofa, designed by Axel Einar Hjorth and produced by Nordiska Kompaniet in Sweden in 1932, is a distinguished example of Scandinavian modernism rooted in the functionalist movement. Constructed from acid-stained pine, the sofa features a robust yet refined structure characterized by clean lines and a synthesis of rustic and modernist influences. Its open spindle backrest and gently curved armrests rest on slightly tapered legs, which together emphasize both visual lightness and structural stability.

Axel Einar Hjorth (1888–1959) was a Swedish designer renowned for merging traditional craftsmanship with modernist design principles. His work for Nordiska Kompaniet in the 1930s included furniture collections tailored for Swedish summer homes, with the Utö series—named after an island in the Stockholm archipelago—being particularly notable. These designs juxtapose the raw texture of untreated or stained pine with carefully considered forms, contributing to their enduring appeal in contemporary design circles.

The sofa retains its original striped upholstery in black, white, and brown tones, which provides a visual contrast to the warm, textured wood grain of the frame. The piece is in well-preserved condition, exhibiting a natural patina consistent with its age and use.

The sofa measures 140 cm in width, 48.5 cm in depth, and 79 cm in height (55.1 by 19.1 by 31.1 inches), with a seat height of 39 cm that rises to 45 cm when the cushion is included (15.4 to 17.7 inches), offering both comfort and a sculptural presence within a functionalist interior.