Arne Vodder Teak Writing Desk / Vanity Table for Sibast Møbler, Denmark, 1960s
An elegant and highly functional teak piece by Arne Vodder, combining the refinement of a dressing table with the practicality of a compact Danish writing desk
Arne Vodder Teak Writing Desk / Vanity Table, Denmark, 1960s
A scarce and beautifully resolved Burmese Teak Writing Desk / Dressing Table designed by Arne Vodder for Sibast Møbler, Denmark, circa 1960. Vodder’s work for Sibast is coveted for its sculptural restraint and impeccable craftsmanship, and this piece captures the quiet sophistication of his best designs.
The tabletop lifts to reveal a concealed mirror and a sunken compartment —ideal for stationery, jewellery, cosmetics or small personal items. A single floating drawer sits below, featuring fine dovetail joinery and internal divisions, further underscoring the quality of Sibast’s cabinetmaking. The frame stands on four elegant cylindrical legs with Vodder’s signature soft, architectural lines.
Offering a versatile blend of dressing table and writing desk proportions—making it as suitable for a bedroom as for a studio.
Examples of this vanity/desk are exceptionally hard to find, making it a noteworthy addition for collectors of Danish mid-century design.
Designer: Arne Vodder
Manufacturer: Sibast Møbler
Year: 1960s
Country: Denmark
Materials: Teak
Dimensions: W 110cm x D 57cm x H 72 cm | 110cm (mirror open)
Condition: Presented in good vintage condition.
Gently restored and refinished to preserve its original character.
The original mirror presents with a natural patina acquired over time
As expected with vintage pieces, there is a degree of age-related patina.
Photographed in natural light in our studio.
Designer: Arne Vodder (1926–2009)
Arne Vodder was a leading figure of Danish modern design, celebrated for his sculptural sensibility and impeccable craftsmanship. Trained under Finn Juhl at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Vodder carried forward his mentor’s humanist approach to furniture design — emphasising organic form, honesty of materials, and timeless function.
He began his collaboration with Sibast Møbler in the 1950s, producing a series of designs that became emblematic of post-war Scandinavian elegance. His works are characterised by softened geometric lines, floating panels, and the natural beauty of teak and rosewood. Vodder’s attention to proportion and detail gave his pieces a refined architectural quality — at once understated and richly expressive.
Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Vodder’s designs were exhibited internationally, furnishing embassies, offices, and homes across Europe and the United States. Today, his furniture is regarded as among the most collectible examples of Danish modernism, admired for its craftsmanship, harmony, and quiet sophistication.
As with many quality Mid-Century pieces, this design thoughtfully pairs solid wood construction with a premium wood veneer—an approach widely used at the time to highlight beautiful grain patterns while ensuring lasting stability.
We try to capture the condition of our items in our photographs as best as possible. Prior to dispatch all items are carefully cleaned and re-coated with danish oil to ensure your item is looking its best when delivered.
Prices do not include delivery.
Contact us to arrange to view, discuss collection or if you have any queries.
We deliver locally within Cape Town for a small fee and can accommodate collection by courier or in person. Collections must be made within two weeks of purchase as we cannot hold furniture for extended periods.
Working with vintage pieces means celebrating the character and history each item holds. While we maintain high standards, our pieces are not new — gentle wear and age-related patina are part of their story.
Although we carefully clean and lightly restored each item to honour its original state, most of our furniture dates from the pre-1980s era, and subtle signs of age may still be visible. We make every effort to highlight any notable details or concerns.
We provide detailed photographs, including overall views and close-ups of notable details, which form part of the condition report. We encourage you to review these images carefully, and if you have any questions or would like further clarity, we’re always happy to assist, viewings are welcome by appointment.
VINTAGE CONDITIONS:
excellent - Like new, exhibiting minimal to no indications of wear, with scarcely any visible signs of age or use.
very good - Light use marks and signs of age, such as minor scratches and minimal wear on areas like feet or inconspicuous spots on veneer or leather.
good - Displays light to moderate scratches, with some more noticeable blemishes. May have small damages and stains, and the possibility of ring marks. Leather may exhibit small rips.
fair - Exhibits more pronounced scratches, including lighter ones in many prominent areas (e.g., the top of a sideboard). Leather may show tears and stress marksUnfortunately we currently only deliver in Cape Town area, but you are welcome to arrange courier on your side, we can also arrange on your behalf.
Shipment outside of Cape Town is NOT calculated at check-out and is quoted based on the item's dimensions and or weight.
Unfortunately we can not reserve any items until shipping has been finalized (the item should be purchased and checked out, with payment confirmation received if paid via EFT).
After purchase, we can assist you with costs from our preferred supplier.
Please note that all items shipped outside of Cape Town are wrapped extensively, we charge a small packaging fee depending on the item, starting cost of R250 per individual item. The cost of wrapping depends on the size of the item. For ALL our items, especially fragile items, i.e. glass and mirrors we recommend professional crating.
For fragile items or items that have glass elements we don't recommend shipment and transport outside of Cape Town.
For peace of mind, we recommend arranging cover for your shipment with your own insurance provider during transit.
Please refer to our Shipping Policy
Restoration Process:
In our studio workshop, every item undergoes an inspection and careful restoration process. We prioritize maintaining the original charm and patina of the piece, while also making it a beautiful addition to modern interiors.
Our Approach Includes:
- Examining and reinforcing the joints
- Cleaning the wood and removing any stains
- Conducting veneer repairs as necessary
- Polishing or refinishing surfaces to enhance their appearance
