Maija Heikinheimo Art Deco Side Table Apu Model 604 in Dark Birch, Asko 1930s

A functional and beautifully simple Art Deco side table by Maija Heikinheimo, produced by Asko in the 1930s. In the original Asko drawings the model is named “Apu”—Finnish for help—and carries model number 604. Lightweight and easy to move, the table features a practical middle shelf in addition to the lower level, offering versatile storage. This example is crafted in dark-stained birch and is stamped Asko on the underside. A brilliant piece of streamlined Finnish design.

Maija Heikinheimo (1908–1963) began her career at Asko (1932–1935) before joining Artek, where she became Alvar Aalto’s trusted right hand, particularly after Aino Aalto’s passing. She served as Artek’s general manager from 1945 to 1955. A gifted yet modest designer, Heikinheimo created furniture, lighting, tableware, and smaller objects. She received the Pro Finlandia medal in 1959. Known for her loyalty to Aalto, she often dedicated drawings at the Artek office under his name—meticulously erasing the signatures of herself and other designers, preferring to remain in the background. She stayed with Artek until her sudden passing at the age of 55.