Svante Skogh dining table

The Cortina dining table, designed by Svante Skogh in 1958 and produced by AB Seffle Möbelfabrik in Sweden, is a masterful example of Scandinavian modernist furniture that seamlessly blends sculptural refinement with technical precision. This rare and exceptional table exemplifies Skogh’s design philosophy—where architectural clarity and a reverence for materials meet in a cohesive, highly functional form.

The round tabletop is veneered in rich rosewood, arranged in a striking starburst pattern that radiates outward from the center. This detailed veneer work highlights the natural complexity and tonal variation of the rosewood grain, offering a dynamic surface that changes character with the angle of light. The artistry of this veneer technique elevates the tabletop beyond function, making it a visual focal point in any interior.

The table rests on four elegantly splayed legs crafted from solid beech, chosen for its structural integrity and subtle contrast with the darker rosewood top. The use of beech lightens the visual weight of the base and enhances the overall balance of materials—an intentional and thoughtful juxtaposition. The legs are delicately tapered and angled, contributing to the table’s light, almost floating appearance, while ensuring stability and durability.

A key feature of the Cortina table is its extension capability. The circular top expands to an oval form through the inclusion of extension leaves, offering flexibility in accommodating additional seating. This versatility was a hallmark of Scandinavian design in the postwar period, addressing both the aesthetic and practical demands of modern living.

The overall proportions of the table are clean and harmonious, reflecting the Scandinavian commitment to functional elegance. There are no extraneous elements—every curve and junction serves a purpose—yet the form remains warm and approachable, a quality that defines Skogh’s best work.

Svante Skogh (1923–1998) was a significant contributor to Sweden’s mid-century design movement, known for his furniture that combined expressive woodwork with a modernist clarity. His designs for Seffle Möbelfabrik during the 1950s and 1960s often pushed the boundaries of conventional craftsmanship, and the Cortina table stands as one of his most accomplished creations. It reveals his ability to work with contrasting materials and create furniture that was both highly aesthetic and rigorously constructed.

The condition of this piece is excellent. The rosewood veneer is remarkably well-preserved, with a consistent sheen and only minimal signs of age-related wear. The tabletop’s surface retains its clarity and depth, and the starburst pattern remains crisp and defined. The beech legs show only light patina, maintaining their structural and visual integrity.