Coffee table

This rare coffee table, produced in Sweden during the 1940s, is an elegant example of early Scandinavian modern design, though the designer remains unidentified. The table combines craftsmanship and artistry through its thoughtful use of materials and understated, balanced proportions.

The tabletop is a circular disc of original raw glass, frosted to a translucent finish and featuring a subtle etched motif of a woman. This etched decoration introduces a decorative and figurative element, elevating the piece beyond its functional purpose and adding a layer of artistic expression. The frosted surface softens the reflection of light and enhances the table’s ethereal, light-filled appearance, while the etching becomes a focal point when viewed from above.

Supporting the glass is a sculptural Y-shaped base made from solid elmwood. The elm has a warm, golden hue and a fine, active grain that adds natural texture and warmth to the design. The intersecting legs are joined with visible craftsmanship, reflecting the quality woodworking techniques characteristic of mid-century Scandinavian furniture. The clean lines of the base and its symmetry offer a visual counterpoint to the soft, decorative top, resulting in a harmonious blend of natural materiality and refined form.

Despite the anonymity of the designer, the table exemplifies key attributes of the 1940s Scandinavian design ethos—simplicity, clarity of structure, and the integration of decorative and functional elements. It serves equally well as a coffee or accent table, bridging artistic presence with utilitarian purpose.

The table measures 79 cm in diameter and 54 cm in height. In imperial units, this corresponds to approximately 31.1 inches in diameter and 21.3 inches in height.