Hans Hansen box

This decorative box was designed by Hans Hansen and produced in Denmark during the 1950s. The box is constructed from richly grained rosewood, displaying a warm, dark brown tone with variegated striations in black and reddish-brown, characteristic of high-quality rosewood used in Scandinavian mid-century cabinetry and decorative arts. Its rectangular form is compact and refined, with a clean, linear silhouette that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. A square inlay of sterling silver is embedded into the lid, offering a subtle contrast to the wood while adding a touch of material refinement. The hinge is also made of sterling silver, providing both durability and an additional accent of polished metal along the rear edge of the box.

The interior is divided into two compartments, showcasing the same meticulous attention to grain direction and joinery as seen on the exterior. The wood’s grain is consistent across all surfaces, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the box. A maker’s mark stamped on the underside reads “925 S Sterling Denmark” confirming the purity of the silver and the Danish origin of the piece.

Hans Hansen (1884–1940) was a renowned Danish silversmith, known for founding one of Denmark’s most influential silversmithing workshops. While he was primarily recognized for his silver jewelry and flatware, his workshop also produced a select number of luxury decorative objects that combined precious metals with high-quality woods. This practice continued into the 1950s under the direction of his son, Karl Gustav Hansen. The design of this box reflects the hallmark features of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, where minimalism, craftsmanship, and the use of natural materials intersect to create refined, functional objects.

The box is in very good condition, with only minor signs of age-appropriate wear.

The dimensions of the box are 21 cm in width, 9.5 cm in depth, and 3.5 cm in height, which is approximately 8.27 inches wide, 3.74 inches deep, and 1.38 inches high.