Børge Mogensen bureau

This rare bureau, model BM57, was designed by Børge Mogensen and produced by the cabinetmaker P. Lauritsen & Søn in Denmark in 1957. The piece is constructed from solid and veneered teak, featuring drawer interiors in light birch or maple. The design emphasizes minimalism and proportion, with recessed brass pulls flush-mounted into the drawer fronts, creating a clean and rectilinear facade. The teak exhibits a rich reddish-brown tone with fine grain, and the craftsmanship is evident in the precise joinery and hand-finished surfaces.

The bureau comprises five vertically arranged drawers housed within a simple rectangular case. It is elevated on squared side runners that form an open, framed base—a structural and stylistic detail typical of Mogensen’s 1950s cabinetry. This base lends a sense of lightness while reinforcing the case. Each drawer features circular brass pulls inset into oval escutcheons, providing tactile detail without disrupting the horizontal lines. The drawer interiors display fine dovetail joinery and a contrasting light finish, enhancing the piece’s craftsmanship.

Børge Mogensen (1914–1972) was a seminal figure in Danish modernism, celebrated for functionalist designs grounded in craftsmanship and clarity. The BM57 bureau reflects his dedication to utility and permanence. His collaboration with skilled cabinetmakers such as P. Lauritsen & Søn ensured the highest woodworking standards, even in contemporary forms. Produced in limited quantities, this model stands among Mogensen’s refined storage designs prior to his focus on larger-scale production collaborations.

The bureau is in very good vintage condition, showing minor wear consistent with age and careful use. The teak surfaces have developed a slight patina and bear some small scratches. The brass hardware has acquired a natural matte finish, and the drawers operate smoothly.

Dimensions measure 70 centimeters in width, 50 centimeters in depth, and 90 centimeters in height (approximately 27.6 x 19.7 x 35.4 inches).