Kai Kristiansen bureau

This rare chest of drawers, model 385, was designed by Danish designer Kai Kristiansen and produced by Aksel Kjersgaard in Odder, Denmark during the 1950s. Executed in solid oak with precise joinery and clean proportions, the design reflects the formal clarity and material honesty of Scandinavian mid-century craftsmanship.

The cabinet features a vertical form resting on a solid oak frame with squared legs and chamfered internal edges, lending the piece a light and elevated stance. The carcass is constructed from well-figured oak, finished in a golden hue that highlights the natural grain. The five drawers are uniformly proportioned and fronted with recessed circular pulls, offering an integrated handle design that contributes to the minimalist visual language.

The construction demonstrates high-quality cabinetmaking, evident in the finely executed dovetail joints on the solid birch drawer sides and the precision of the internal fit. The overall condition is good vintage, with light signs of wear consistent with age and use, including subtle surface marks that contribute to the authenticity and charm of the piece.

Kai Kristiansen, a student of Kaare Klint at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, was known for his exacting attention to proportion and detail. His work typically emphasized functionalism combined with a refined elegance. Aksel Kjersgaard, a respected Danish cabinetmaker, often collaborated with Kristiansen and was recognized for his high-quality production methods and use of premium materials. Their shared commitment to traditional craftsmanship and modernist ideals is clearly expressed in this model.

The bureau is a fine example of mid-century Danish design, suitable for use in both domestic and professional interiors where compact storage with a light footprint is required.

Dimensions:
Width: 60 cm / 23.6 inches
Depth: 36 cm / 14.2 inches
Height: 104.5 cm / 41.1 inches