Poul Kjærholm coffee table
This coffee table, model PK-61, was designed by Poul Kjærholm and produced by E. Kold Christensen in Denmark during the 1950s. The design represents one of Kjærholm’s most iconic works, distilling his philosophy of combining industrial materials with refined craftsmanship. The table is characterized by its minimalist structure, with a square tabletop and a visible frame construction where every joint and connection becomes part of the aesthetic language.
The tabletop is made of white Carrara marble, displaying natural veining in shades of grey that varies across the surface, giving each piece a unique character. The marble rests on a steel frame that is both light in its visual expression and strong in its structural integrity. The legs are positioned flush with the corners, emphasizing the strict geometric form and architectural clarity that Kjærholm consistently pursued in his furniture.
The condition is good vintage, with small signs of usage that are consistent with age and use, but without any structural compromises. The patina on the steel and the natural aging of the marble reflect the authenticity of the piece and highlight its material honesty, which was central to Kjærholm’s design ethos.
Poul Kjærholm (1929–1980) trained as a cabinetmaker before studying at the Danish School of Arts and Crafts, where he developed his interest in industrial materials. His collaboration with the producer E. Kold Christensen was essential in bringing many of his designs into production, and together they established a legacy of mid-century Scandinavian furniture that balanced minimalism with luxurious materiality. The PK-61 is a quintessential example of this approach, stripping the coffee table down to its essence while maintaining a timeless elegance.
The table belongs to the mid-century Scandinavian design tradition, yet it stands out for its international modernist sensibility, reflecting the influence of Bauhaus and contemporary architectural thought. It remains a significant example of how Scandinavian designers redefined everyday furniture through rigorous attention to form, proportion, and materials.
Dimensions: width 80 cm (31.5 in), depth 80 cm (31.5 in), height 32.5 cm (12.8 in)
Dimensions (cm) | W: 80 / D: 80 / H: 32.5 |
Producer | E. Kold Christensen |
Color | White |
Decade | 1950s |
Country | Denmark |
Style | Danish modern, Mid Century, Scandinavian Modern |
Material | Marble, Steel |
Designed in | 1950s |
Item Number | 117536 |
Poul Kjærholm
Poul Kjærholm (1929–1980) was a Danish furniture designer celebrated for his refined minimalist aesthetic, deep respect for materials, and meticulous attention to craftsmanship. He is considered one of the leading figures of 20th-century Scandi...
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