Svend Aage Madsen attrib. dressing table

This rare vanity or dressing table, attributed to Svend Aage Madsen and produced in Denmark during the 1950s, exemplifies the refined craftsmanship and modernist aesthetics of Scandinavian mid-century design. The piece is both sculptural and practical, integrating storage and grooming features within a compact, elegant form.

Crafted from solid teak, the frame features tapered, gently angled legs and softly rounded structural elements that impart a light and graceful visual presence. The rich reddish-brown hue highlights the fine grain of the teak, which has been preserved in very good vintage condition with a soft, even patina.

The tabletop is bordered by a raised edge forming a recessed tray area, and includes five small drawers with finely turned teak pulls. The central drawer is slightly deeper, suited for larger grooming or writing accessories. A discreet compartment is concealed beneath a small center lid, while visible dovetail joinery in the open drawers underscores the high-quality craftsmanship.

The standout feature is the curved mirror, mounted between two vertical teak posts and adjustable for angle. Its minimal frame integrates seamlessly with the design, rendering the glass nearly frameless when viewed from the front. The mirror’s gentle curve echoes the organic shapes of the structure. Brass pivot fasteners add both functional strength and a tactile contrast to the warm wood.

Svend Aage Madsen (b. 1917) is recognized for his contributions to Danish modern design, with a focus on elegant, ergonomic forms and clever use of storage, typically realized through collaborations with skilled Danish cabinetmakers.

The vanity measures 81 cm wide, 45 cm deep, and 112.5 cm tall, with a tabletop height of 67.5 cm. In imperial units, this corresponds to approximately 31.9 inches wide, 17.7 inches deep, 44.3 inches high, and a usable surface height of 26.6 inches.