Mirror

This rare and large foldable mirror, produced by Glas Mäster in Markaryd, Sweden, exemplifies the understated innovation and material elegance characteristic of mid-century Scandinavian design. Though the designer remains unidentified, the piece’s functional ingenuity and refined material palette reflect the craftsmanship and design ethos prominent in Sweden during the postwar period.

The mirror is constructed with a solid oak frame that reveals careful attention to detail in its joinery and proportions. The oak has aged beautifully, exhibiting a warm, honey-toned patina that enhances the visibility of the natural wood grain. The frame’s surface is subtly worn in places, consistent with decades of respectful use, and these signs of age only add to the mirror’s tactile and visual authenticity.

The structure features a clever folding mechanism supported by brass hinges that allow the mirror to expand into a wide, three-panel formation or collapse neatly for compact display. When unfolded, the triptych design offers a broad reflective surface, ideal for dressing areas, entryways, or as an architectural element in a room. The brass hardware, with its soft golden patina, provides a refined contrast to the oak frame, and the hinges themselves are well-engineered—highlighting the durable, functional beauty that underpins much of Swedish modern design.

Glas Mäster, a company based in Markaryd, Sweden, was known for its high-quality glass and mirror production throughout the mid-20th century. This piece likely dates from the 1950s or 1960s and would have appealed to clients seeking elegant yet practical furnishings. The mirror’s combination of natural materials, clean lines, and mobility makes it particularly versatile—capable of serving both as a decorative object and a functional dressing mirror.

In good vintage condition, the mirror shows only minor surface wear, primarily on the wooden frame and metal fittings. The glass panels remain clean and clear, free of significant scratches or defects, and the folding mechanism functions smoothly.

This foldable mirror is a distinctive and rare example of Swedish mid-century design. With its generous scale, sophisticated material contrast, and intelligent form, it stands as both a utilitarian object and a sculptural statement—embodying the enduring values of craftsmanship, simplicity, and adaptability.