Ludvig Pontoppidan trolley

This drop-leaf trolley, crafted in the 1960s by Danish cabinetmaker Ludvig Pontoppidan, showcases the rich materiality and exacting craftsmanship of mid-century Scandinavian furniture. Its primary structure is built from richly grained rosewood veneer over a solid frame, the wood’s deep reddish-brown tones punctuated by dramatic horizontal figuring and book-matched panels on both the drawer front and the two hinged leaves. The surface exhibits a subtle hand-rubbed patina, with only minor surface marks that attest to careful preservation over the decades.

The trolley’s form balances functional versatility with elegant proportion. In its closed configuration, the compact central case measures 45.5 cm in width, 75 cm in depth and stands 70.5 cm high (approximately 17.9 × 29.5 × 27.8 inches). Two drop leaves, each hinged to the sides, swing upward to expand the width to 116.5 cm (about 45.9 inches), transforming the piece into a generous serving or side table. Below the fitted drawer—assembled with through-dovetail joinery and featuring a recessed oval pull—lies an open storage compartment, while a full-length lower shelf, framed by gently curved stretchers, provides additional display or storage space.

Attention to detail is evident in the joinery and hardware. The single drawer’s maple-lined interior underscores Pontoppidan’s commitment to high-quality internal finishes. All edges and corners are crisp yet softened by precise beveling. Each of the four cylindrical legs terminates in original brass ferrules mounted on casters, allowing smooth mobility; the brass shows a mellow oxidation consistent with age but remains structurally sound and fully functional.

Ludvig Pontoppidan operated within the esteemed Danish cabinetmaker tradition, often producing small series or bespoke commissions that married classical joinery with modernist aesthetics. His work emphasizes material integrity and balanced proportions, and this trolley is a prime example—its expressive rosewood veneer patterning set against the cool gleam of aged brass creates a restrained yet richly textured composition.

An original sales invoice dated 1969 accompanies this piece, confirming its provenance and period of production. Today, the trolley remains in very good vintage condition, its rosewood surfaces well preserved, the brass fittings intact, and the drop-leaf mechanism operating smoothly. Its dual identity as both a compact service trolley and an expandable side table makes it a versatile addition to interiors that value technical refinement and historic authenticity.