Josef Frank dining table
This dining table, model 947, designed by Josef Frank and produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden in 1938, exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and thoughtful design characteristic of Swedish modernism. Constructed from mahogany, the tabletop is enhanced by delicate boxwood inlays that highlight the wood’s natural grain with subtle decorative detail. The surface features smoothly rounded edges, contributing to a soft and approachable aesthetic. The table stands on tapered legs that provide both structural stability and a light visual presence, balancing solidity with elegance.
Josef Frank, an Austrian-born architect and designer who became a pivotal figure in Scandinavian modernism, often rejected the rigid tenets of functionalism in favor of a more human-centered and decorative approach to design. His philosophy emphasized adaptability, comfort, and harmony within interiors. Model 947 reflects these values through its classical references intertwined with modern simplicity, resulting in a piece that is both functional and visually warm.
Svenskt Tenn, founded in 1924, gained prominence as a leading Swedish interior design firm known for its dedication to high-quality craftsmanship and progressive aesthetics. Under Josef Frank’s creative direction, the company became renowned for combining fine materials and elegant forms, producing furniture that has endured as timeless icons of design.
The table’s extendable mechanism allows it to expand from a compact 150 centimeters (59 inches) to a generous 390 centimeters (153.5 inches), providing versatility for a variety of settings and occasions. Its width measures 110 centimeters (43.3 inches), with a height of 72 centimeters (28.3 inches). The table is preserved in good vintage condition, showing minor signs of use consistent with its age and history.
Dimensions (cm) | W: 150 / D: 110 / H: 72 Extended: W: 390 |
Producer | Svenskt Tenn |
Decade | 1930s |
Country | Sweden |
Style | Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Boxwood, Mahogany |
Designed in | 1938 |
Item Number | 140071 |
Josef Frank
Josef Frank (1885–1967) was an Austrian-born architect, furniture designer, and textile artist who became a central figure in Swedish modernism. He is best known for his vividly patterned textiles and distinctive approach to furniture and interi...
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