Josef Frank side tables

This rare pair of side tables, model 1073, designed by Josef Frank and produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden during the 1950s, exemplifies Frank’s distinctive blend of functionalism, warmth, and elegance. Each table is crafted from a harmonious combination of mahogany and walnut, showcasing rich, warm tones and visible wood grain patterns that highlight the natural beauty of the materials.

The design features a two-tier structure, with the upper tier slightly elevated on turned wooden supports. A small drawer with a brass handle is integrated into the upper section, offering practical storage while maintaining the tables’ clean, refined aesthetic. The slender, slightly tapered legs end in rounded feet, a subtle detail characteristic of Frank’s approach to furniture design.

Josef Frank, an Austrian-born architect and designer who became a pivotal figure in Swedish modernism after relocating in the 1930s, is known for challenging the strict minimalism of early modernism by introducing organic forms, natural materials, and a more humanistic design philosophy. Model 1073 reflects this ethos by combining functionality with an inviting, tactile presence.

Svenskt Tenn, founded in Stockholm in 1924 by Estrid Ericson, gained international recognition through its collaborations with Frank. The company played a significant role in shaping Swedish interior design by marrying modernism with craftsmanship and decorative artistry.

Each table measures approximately 48 centimeters in width, 100 centimeters in depth, and 55 centimeters in height (18.9 x 39.4 x 21.7 inches), with the lower tier positioned at 28 centimeters (11 inches). The pair is in very good vintage condition, showing minor wear consistent with age, which adds to their authentic character.