Graduated in 1934 from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Finn Juhl first worked with Vilhelm Lauritzen and then, with the help of cabinetmaker Niels Vodder, created his first furniture set for his own home. When he opened his studio in 1945, he immediately distinguished himself by his pure and organic lines in search of a romantic look at his time and his creation. His unmistakably Danish style nevertheless stands out from the traditional functionalism of his peers by adopting a unique sculptural aesthetic in the use of materials, form and construction.
The Judas dining table, long called the "Silver Table", was designed by designer Finn Juhl in 1948 for his own residence. It was later manufactured by cabinetmaker Niels Vodder for the general public in the late 1950s and presented in its rosewood version at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild exhibition. This piece testifies to Juhl's expressiveness and love of detail, even on parts that are not visible. Thus, the designer wanted to make the structural elements of this table as sensual as possible.
Finn Juhl (1912-1989)
Judas
Dining table
Rosewood and silver
Edition Niels Vodder
Vodder Cabinetmaker Copenhagen, Denmark,
Design Finn Juhl
Date of creation : ~1950
H 72 × L 199 ×P 140 cm
Result : 49 400€
This model inlaid with thirty pieces of silver is nicknamed "Judas Table" in reference to the price for which Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus of Nazareth (thirty denarii), according to the Gospel of Matthew 26:15. The positioning of the silver inlays indicates the placement of the guests at the table, which can accommodate 4, 6, 8 or 10 people. Its two additional extensions can accommodate up to 14 people.
