Johannes Andersen smiling table

This table, known as the Smile Table, Smilebordet, UFO Table, or Smiling Table, was designed by Johannes Andersen and produced by CFC Silkeborg in Denmark during the 1950s. Crafted from solid teak, the table exemplifies the playful yet refined approach characteristic of Scandinavian mid-century design.

The color of the teak wood is a warm medium brown with a subtle reddish undertone, showcasing a rich and uniform grain pattern throughout the surface. The table has a finely oiled finish that enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing a soft, tactile sheen.

The shape of the table is highly sculptural and organic, featuring an elongated elliptical top with gently tapered ends. The standout feature is the open, arching structure formed by the side profiles, where the legs and supports flow together in a continuous, fluid line that resembles a smile or the aerodynamic shape of a UFO. This unique construction gives the table a sense of lightness and dynamic movement while maintaining stability.

The condition of the table is very good, with minor signs of use consistent with its age, maintaining its structural integrity and visual appeal. The surface retains its original character, showing only minimal wear, which adds to its authenticity as a vintage piece.

Johannes Andersen was a Danish architect and designer known for his organic forms, attention to craftsmanship, and sensitivity to material. His work during the 1950s and 1960s was integral to the international popularity of Scandinavian modern design. CFC Silkeborg, the producer, was noted for its collaborations with many distinguished designers, emphasizing high-quality production and the use of fine materials like teak.

This table is an important example of mid-century Scandinavian furniture design, blending sculptural form with functional design in a way that remains timeless. Its flowing lines and expressive character make it a distinctive and collectible piece within the context of modernist design history.

The dimensions of the table are 150 cm in width, 52 cm in depth, and 49.5 cm in height, corresponding approximately to 59.06 inches wide, 20.47 inches deep, and 19.49 inches high.