Kristian Solmer Vedel side table

This rare side table or fruit bowl was designed by Kristian Solmer Vedel and produced in 1963 by Søren Willadsen Møbelfabrik in Denmark. The piece exemplifies a high point of Danish mid-century design, where sculptural elegance is seamlessly combined with material innovation. Its minimalist yet expressive construction balances the warmth of solid rosewood with the industrial precision of a spun aluminum top.

The table’s structure consists of four tapered legs crafted from richly figured rosewood. These legs transition smoothly into softly rounded corners joined with precise 45-degree miters. The legs support a recessed circular platform designed to hold a removable aluminum bowl. The bowl itself is shallow and dish-like, featuring a subtle upward curve and a radial brushed finish that creates a soft, matte sheen. The aluminum bowl rests delicately within the wooden frame, with the gently lifted corners of the frame accommodating and stabilizing the bowl’s shape.

Kristian Solmer Vedel was a prominent Danish designer active during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his thoughtful integration of form, ergonomics, and materiality. While his reputation largely rests on modular shelving systems and organic seating, this table highlights his interest in creating sculptural contrast—juxtaposing the industrial clarity of metal with the tactile warmth of tropical hardwood. Søren Willadsen Møbelfabrik, a respected Danish cabinetmaker of the period, was renowned for meticulous craftsmanship and collaborations with innovative designers like Vedel.

Stylistically, the piece is rooted in Scandinavian modernism, characterized by minimalist lines, refined joinery, and functional clarity. The gently elevated corners of the wooden frame introduce a subtle sculptural quality, suggesting movement and lift. The table is in excellent vintage condition, with the rosewood exhibiting a rich patina and minimal wear, while the aluminum bowl retains its brushed finish with only minor surface marks consistent with use.

The table measures 71 cm in diameter and 32 cm in height, which is approximately 28 inches wide and 12.6 inches high in imperial units.