FUR-063 Torbjørn Afdal — "Krobo" Rosewood Coffee Table / Bench for Bruksbo / Mellemstrands, Norway, c.1960s

An iconic and highly collectible original "Krobo" rosewood bench / coffee table designed by celebrated Norwegian master Torbjørn Afdal (1917–1999) for Bruksbo, manufactured by Mellemstrands Trevareindustri, Vigrestad, Norway in the 1960s. Original maker's label intact on underside. One of the defining objects of the Scandinavian Modern movement and among the most recognizable Norwegian furniture designs of the 20th century.

Torbjørn Afdal was the principal designer at Bruksbo Tegnekontor and one of the most important figures in Norwegian modernism. His reputation reached the highest levels — his furniture entered the collection of US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and was acquired by the Emperor of Japan. He later received the prestigious commission to design the parliamentary chairs and tables for the Oslo courthouse. Afdal's designs in rosewood are among the most actively collected Scandinavian Modern objects on the international market, regularly appearing at 1stDibs, Chairish, Pamono, and Wright auctions.

The Krobo is Afdal's most celebrated and enduring design — a supremely resolved object that functions with equal elegance as a coffee table, bench, entryway table, or sculptural room element. Its defining features are the elegantly raised lip edges that frame the rosewood top, the beautifully crafted U-shaped pedestal bases, and the richly grained dark rosewood veneer that only deepens with age. This example retains its original Mellemstrands / Bruksbo label — a critical provenance marker that authenticates the piece and distinguishes it from the numerous unlabeled examples on the market.

Details:

• Designer: Torbjørn Afdal (Norwegian, 1917–1999)
• Model: Krobo
• Manufacturer: Mellemstrands Trevareindustri, Vigrestad, Norway
• Distributor: Bruksbo
• Material: Rosewood (solid and veneered)
• Period: Circa 1960s
• Height: 13.5"
• Width: 47.25"
• Depth: 14.5"
• Label: Original Mellemstrands / Bruksbo maker's label present
• Style: Norwegian Modern / Scandinavian Modern

Condition:

Stains and finish wear to the top surface consistent with decades of use. Scuffs and scratches to the bases. All wear is entirely typical for an original example of this age in unrestored condition — a professional light refinish of the top would elevate this piece to showroom quality. The structure, form, and rosewood are all fully intact and present beautifully. Original label intact.

Note: This piece is sold in original, unrestored condition. Restoration is easily achievable and would significantly enhance value. Please review all photographs carefully.

Pickup & Shipping: Local pickup preferred. For buyers requiring shipping, we are happy to provide referrals to our trusted third-party shippers. Please contact us prior to purchase to make arrangements.