Bertil Fridhagen coffee table

This very rare coffee or console table, designed by Bertil Fridhagen and produced in the 1950s by Bodafors in Sweden, exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and material elegance of Scandinavian mid-century modern design. Fridhagen, known for his understated sophistication and meticulous attention to proportion, imbues this piece with both functional utility and sculptural grace.

The table is constructed from richly grained, mahogany wood chosen for its warmth and tonal clarity. The circular wooden frame is finely shaped, with gently rounded edges and an unbroken surface that emphasizes the natural beauty of the material. The grain runs in a consistent, radial pattern around the perimeter, showcasing the care taken in the selection and orientation of the wood.

At the center of the table is an inset textured glass surface, slightly recessed within the wooden frame. The glass has a lightly frosted or patterned finish that introduces a tactile contrast while subtly reflecting light. This feature enhances the table’s visual interest without disrupting its minimalist sensibility, and allows for decorative or functional use without compromising the table’s aesthetic purity.

The base consists of three slender legs, each gracefully split at the upper section into twin supports that merge back into a single tapered form as they descend. This architectural gesture adds a quiet complexity to the design, expressing movement and precision. Each leg is finished with a brass cap, offering a subtle material counterpoint and reinforcing the mid-century character of the piece. The brass tips serve both decorative and protective functions, grounding the table with a metallic accent.

Produced by Bodafors, one of Sweden’s most respected mid-century furniture manufacturers, the table reflects the high standards of joinery and design integrity that defined the firm’s collaborations with leading Swedish designers of the period.

The table measures 95 cm in diameter and 62 cm in height. In imperial units, this corresponds to approximately 37.4 inches in diameter and 24.4 inches in height. Its versatile proportions and elegant construction make it ideal for use as a coffee table or as a console or accent piece in more spacious interiors.