Carl Malmsten dressing table

This rare vanity or dressing table model Birgitta, was designed by Carl Malmsten and produced by Bodafors in Sweden during the 1960s. The piece is constructed primarily from teak with brass fittings, representing the restrained elegance and functional beauty characteristic of Scandinavian mid-century design.

The structure features an organically shaped tabletop with raised edges, framing a central section that opens to reveal a storage compartment and an integrated tilting mirror. The mirror is framed in matching teak and is mounted on a slender, adjustable support. The desk stands on four tapered legs, providing a light and graceful profile. Below the tabletop, the facade includes multiple small drawers with simple, finely crafted brass pulls, and a cylindrical storage element suspended underneath for additional functionality. The teak exhibits a warm, even tone with rich grain patterns that are particularly prominent on the surface and frame edges.

The condition is good vintage, having undergone a complete professional restoration. Small signs of previous use remain visible, such as minor marks and gentle surface wear, consistent with careful preservation of its original character.

Carl Malmsten was one of Sweden’s most influential furniture designers, celebrated for his commitment to craftsmanship, traditional techniques, and human-centered design. His work often emphasized organic forms, clarity of function, and a deep respect for natural materials, resulting in pieces that remain timeless and beloved.

Bodafors, a respected Swedish furniture manufacturer, collaborated with several leading designers throughout the 20th century. Their production was synonymous with high-quality joinery and precision craftsmanship, helping to define the identity of Swedish modernism.

The dimensions are 86 cm in width, 52 cm in depth, and 70 cm in height to the desk surface, reaching 121 cm at the top of the mirror, corresponding approximately to 33.9 inches wide, 20.5 inches deep, and 27.6 inches high to the table surface, with a full height of approximately 47.6 inches including the mirror.