Bruno Mathsson Piet Hein for Fritz Hansen Super-Ellipse White Dining Table

Bruno Mathsson and Piet Hein for Fritz Hansen, 'Super-Ellipse' dining table, laminated wood, chrome-plated steel, aluminum, Denmark, design 1968, production 1975

This table represents a classic piece of Scandinavian Modern design, created through the collaboration of two influential figures: Swedish furniture designer Bruno Mathsson and Danish mathematician and poet Piet Hein. The design dates back to 1968 and is rooted in Hein's innovative geometric concept of the super-ellipse, a shape that he originally proposed as a solution for optimizing traffic flow at Stockholm's Sergel's Square. The super-ellipse form integrates the softness of an ellipse with the structural functionality of a rectangle, forming a balance between the two shapes. The table's top is constructed from white-laminated wood and framed with a sleek aluminum border, contributing to its reserved and concise look. The span legs, a signature of Mathsson's work, consist of multiple slender metal rods that converge towards the bottom. These rods are anchored by flat circular disks at their base.

Bruno Mathsson (1907-1988), born in Sweden to a cabinetmaker, developed an early interest in architecture and furniture design, which shaped his career. From the outset, Mathsson pursued innovative techniques, particularly becoming known for his expertise in bending laminated wood. His international recognition began in 1937 when his bed design, named "Paris," won the Grand Prix at the Paris World Expo. This milestone boosted his global reputation and led to collaborations with influential figures, such as the manager of the design department at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), who began collecting and exhibiting his work. Mathsson’s designs consistently focused on ergonomics, particularly the "mechanisms of sitting," with chairs that featured curved lines to support the human body and prioritize comfort. One of his most notable collaborations was with Danish mathematician Piet Hein, with whom he developed the "Super-ellipse" table, merging artistic innovation with geometric precision. Mathsson’s body of work is celebrated for its seamless blend of functionality and aesthetic balance. His legacy holds a significant place in the history of Scandinavian Modern design, known for its minimalist yet functional approach.

Kindly note that the piece is in good, used condition with signs of age and use, including lacquer imperfections. For further details, we encourage you to reach out to our team of design specialists.

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