Carl-Axel Acking bedside tables

This rare pair of bedside or side tables, designed by Carl-Axel Acking and produced by Bodafors in Sweden during the 1950s, exemplifies Scandinavian mid-century design through its refined craftsmanship and thoughtful use of materials. Constructed from birch with a veneer of masur birch, the tables feature a warm honey-toned finish that accentuates the wood’s distinctive swirling grain patterns. The design is characterized by clean, straight lines and slightly tapered legs, lending the pieces a light and elegant silhouette.

Each table is topped with a floating glass surface, supported by four raised wooden mounts that subtly elevate the glass above the wooden frame. The glass has a lightly textured finish, creating a delicate interplay of light while preserving the practicality of the surface. A single drawer is integrated into each table, with a drawer front veneered in masur birch and accented by an oval brass pull handle, adding a refined contrast in both texture and color. The tables show minor signs of use, including a small nick on one glass top, consistent with their vintage age and gentle wear.

Carl-Axel Acking was a distinguished Swedish architect and designer, known for his elegant modernist furniture that balanced simplicity, proportion, and high-quality craftsmanship. His work often combined natural materials with subtle detailing, emphasizing functional elegance. Bodafors, the manufacturer, was among Sweden’s leading furniture producers during the mid-century period, recognized for their dedication to producing well-crafted and practical designs that contributed to the development of Scandinavian modernism.

The dimensions of each table are 50 centimeters (19.7 inches) in width, 28 centimeters (11 inches) in depth, and 55 centimeters (21.7 inches) in height. These tables stand as representative examples of mid-century Scandinavian style, showcasing the era’s focus on natural materials, lightness, and refined functionality.