Stool

This three-legged stool, produced in Sweden by an unknown designer, is a well-crafted example of vernacular Scandinavian furniture with a focus on simplicity, functionality, and expressive woodwork. Constructed entirely from stained pine, the stool reflects an appreciation for natural materials and traditional joinery, likely dating to the mid-20th century or earlier.

The circular seat, measuring 30 cm in diameter (11.8 inches), is smoothly finished and subtly concave, enhancing seating comfort. The surface reveals the natural grain of the pine, accentuated by a warm brown stain that brings depth and tonal variation to the wood. The finish allows the organic pattern of the material to remain visible, highlighting its natural beauty.

Supporting the seat are three solid pine legs with a tapering, lathe-turned profile. Each leg flares outward from the center and terminates in a distinctive rounded, ball-like foot. This sculptural detail introduces a playful and tactile quality while enhancing stability and balance. The leg-to-seat joinery is tight and unobtrusive, emphasizing the handcrafted character of the piece.

The stool stands at 41.5 cm in height (16.3 inches), a typical proportion for occasional seating or use as a side table. Its tripod construction ensures stability on uneven surfaces, a practical design solution often employed in rural and utilitarian furniture.

The condition is good overall. The surface shows minor signs of age and use, such as faint wear to the finish, but no significant damage or structural compromise. The wood remains solid and the finish retains an even tone with a mild sheen.

Although the designer is unknown, the stool’s form and material execution reflect a lineage of Scandinavian craft traditions where aesthetic restraint and functional clarity were paramount. This piece is a fine example of modest, regionally produced furniture that bridges the gap between artisanal woodworking and early modernist sensibilities.