Frystark 'Dane' Extending Dining Table in Burma Teak — South Africa, c. 1960s
A well-proportioned extending dining table, ‘Dane' model by Frystark, one of South Africa's most respected mid-century furniture manufacturers. Made in Burma teak — solid and veneered — the table demonstrates the warm tonal variation and restrained elegance characteristic of Frystark's interpretations of Scandinavian modernism during the period. The rectangular top extends via a self-storing leaf that folds neatly beneath when not in use, a considered detail that speaks to the practical intelligence of the design, offering flexibility for both everyday use and larger gatherings. The architectural base — four tapered round legs joined by a clean apron — provides stability without visual weight.
Frystark — one of South Africa's most respected furniture manufacturers of the modernist era, was among a number of South African manufacturers producing furniture inspired by Scandinavian modernism during the mid-20th century, often combining practical construction methods with refined, export-influenced design.
Their teak pieces from this period remain among the most collectible examples of South African mid-century design.
The dining chairs shown in some images are available separately — please see our current listings for the matching set.
About Frystark
Frystark furniture is renowned for its beautiful shape and high-quality manufacturing with a strongly influenced by Mid-Century Modern Danish and European design.
Frystark was established in 1948 when brothers Derek and Owen Frye founded a furniture manufacturing business in Cape Town. In 1959 the company merged with G.H. Starck Ltd and opened a factory in Ndabeni, trading as D. and O. Frye, Starck & Co. Ltd — shortened in common use to the Frystark Group.
Working primarily in Burma teak and Mahogany during the 1960s, Frystark produced furniture that drew directly on Scandinavian modernist principles: clean lines, honest materials, and careful construction executed to a consistently high standard. The 'Dane' model was among their most enduring designs — a distillation of Danish modern sensibility adapted for the South African market and climate.
In the late 1960s the company was acquired by AFCOL (Associated Furniture Companies Limited), which shifted production toward volume manufacturing, effectively closing the classic era of the brand. Original Frystark pieces from the 1960s are now genuinely collectible and increasingly difficult to find in restored condition.
Link: Read more about Frystark on the Vintage Club journal →
All Vintage Club pieces are carefully considered for authenticity, provenance, and condition before acquisition. Restoration is undertaken in-house to the highest standard.
Frystark Extendable Dining Table in Teak, South Africa, 1960s
Maker Frystark
Model Dane
Origin South Africa
Period Circa 1960s.
Dimensions Closed: D 91.5 × H 74 cm × Closed: W 152.5 cm | Extended: W 190 cm
Condition Gently restored and refinished at our workshop and presented in good vintage condition. The extension mechanism functions smoothly. The top shows honest wear consistent with a life well lived.
As with all authentic mid-century pieces, gentle signs of age remain and are considered part of their character.
Photographed in natural light in our studio.
Like many well-made mid-century pieces, this one combines solid wood with a quality veneer — a considered choice of the era, used to showcase the finest grain while ensuring the piece moves and settles as the timber intends.
We photograph every piece honestly — what you see is what you'll receive. Before dispatch, each item is cleaned and finished with Osmo Polyx®-Oil so it arrives looking its best.
