Børge Mogensen

BØRGE MOGENSEN (Denmark, 1914 - 1972) for FREDERICIA STOLEFABRIK.
Coffee table, 1950s.
Oak wood.
Measurements: 50 x 140 x 70 cm.

This vintage coffee table, which has been entirely made of oak wood, is distinguished by its rigorous geometry. It stands on two rectangular section legs joined by a top frame. Each of the legs rests on footings. The play of full and empty spaces stands out.

Børge Mogensen was one of the most prominent representatives of the generation of designers who gave rise to the Danish design concept, now known throughout the world. He began his career as a cabinetmaker in 1934, and two years later began his studies at the Copenhagen School of Arts and Crafts, where he was taught by Kaare Klint. He then entered the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, graduating as an architect in 1942. That same year he began working as design director for FDB, finally setting up on his own in 1950. Functional is the word that best describes Mogensen's design; most of his creations were conceived for industrial production, and are characterized by solid, simple lines, studied almost scientifically to be as functional as possible. His clean and highly functional aesthetics resulted in affordable and practical designs, his favorite material being wood. His client portfolio includes Fredericia Stolefabrik, Fritz Hansen and Søborg Møbelfabrik, among others. Notable projects include Spokeback Sofa (1945) and Spanish Chair (1959), as well as a variety of shelving and storage designs. He was honored with the Eckersberg Medal in 1950, the Copenhagen Joinery Guild's annual award in 1953 and the C.F. Hansen Medal in 1972.