Otto Wretling

OTTO WRETLING (Umea, Sweden,1901-1986).
Table "Idealbord". Design from 1936.
Rosewood and birch.
Steel support.
Preserves manufacturer's label.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use.
Measurements: 80 x 224 x 67 cm (open); 80 x 112 x 67 cm (closed).

Otto Wretling baptized with the name of "Idealbord" (Ideal table) this very singular Scandinavian furniture, of ingenious design and sophisticated aesthetic at the same time that minimalist. The rectangular tabletop is foldable, allowing one of its flaps to be hidden under the other, a function that at the same time makes it possible to alternate the woods (rosewood when closed and birch with marquetry when unfolded). The marquetry motifs repeat a rhythmic linear pattern. This is a versatile piece of furniture: since the height and length of the table can be adjusted, it can be used as a dining table, coffee table or console table.

This unique and special table was patented in 1936 by Swedish cabinetmaker Otto Wretling, who designed the table together with his son, Bo Wretling, in 1935.

Otto Leonard Wretling was born in the city of Umea, Sweden. He was a visual artist, designer, painter and furniture maker. His best known work is the Ideal table. Together with his brother Wilhelm (1871-1951), Otto Wretling took over his father's painting business in 1897. The business was soon expanded with a furniture joinery in 1905, and Otto Wretling became the chief designer. The company's furniture style was initially inspired by Art Nouveau, but eventually evolved into a tighter Scandinavian design. Wretling also designed and built a couple of houses in Umeå. The company in downtown Umea was active until 1969. Throughout his life, he remained active as a fine artist and created a large number of oil paintings with natural motifs from Norrland (northern Sweden). In 1928, the company Otto Wretling was elected Royal Court Purveyor by King Gustav V.