Tapio Wirkkala & Aulis Leinonen trolley

This rare trolley or tray table was designed in collaboration by Tapio Wirkkala and Aulis Leinonen and produced by ASKO in Finland, reflecting a refined integration of function and Nordic design principles. The piece is constructed from beech and birch, two woods commonly used in Finnish furniture production for their strength, lightness, and warm, pale coloration. The frame features an intersecting X-shaped base that supports the trays and lends structural stability while introducing a dynamic visual rhythm.

At the core of the design are two removable trays, each crafted in birch with a distinctly grained surface. The trays are made with finger-jointed corners—a joinery detail that reinforces the structure and visually signals the care of craftsmanship. Integrated handles at each end of the trays make them practical for serving and repositioning. Notably, the trays are reversible, allowing the user to select between different wood finishes depending on functional or aesthetic needs, a subtle but clever expression of versatility.

The trolley is mounted on two solid wheels, also executed in wood, which facilitate movement while maintaining the integrity of its minimal design language. The light overall construction and precise joinery are consistent with the ideals of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, where modularity and efficiency are paired with material honesty and elegant simplicity.

Tapio Wirkkala, one of Finland’s most prominent designers and artists, was known for his wide-ranging output in glass, wood, and metal, and for his commitment to elevating utilitarian objects through sculptural refinement. Aulis Leinonen, also active in Finnish industrial and interior design, collaborated on a number of practical furnishings during the post-war period. Their joint effort in this trolley reflects the convergence of artistic design with everyday function.

The trolley remains in very good vintage condition. The wood surfaces exhibit a natural patina developed through time and use, with only light wear, preserving the integrity and aesthetic value of the piece. As both a functional object and an example of collaborative Finnish design, it is a rare and thoughtfully constructed item that bridges domestic practicality with refined form.