Erik Matsson bar cabinet

This very rare bar cabinet was designed by Erik Matsson and produced by Mjölby Intarsia in Sweden in the 1950s. It exemplifies key characteristics of Scandinavian modern design, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship, practical elegance, and the use of natural wood materials of high quality. The cabinet reflects the era’s focus on functional furniture pieces that also serve as artistic expressions.

The cabinet is primarily constructed from warm-toned wood, featuring an elaborate intarsia inlay on its front doors. This inlay depicts a tropical scene with a human figure surrounded by palm trees, a tiger, monkeys, and a crocodile. The precision and detail in the intarsia work showcase the artisanal skill associated with Mjölby Intarsia, a Swedish producer renowned for its mastery in wood inlay techniques. The signature of Erik Matsson is subtly integrated into the composition, serving as a mark of authenticity and design provenance.

The cabinet rests on a raised base characterized by vertical wooden fluting, which introduces a tactile quality and visual interest to the piece without overwhelming the overall design. Internally, the bar cabinet is fitted with mirrored panels that enhance light reflection and spatial depth, a common feature in mid-century Scandinavian furniture design to achieve a light and airy atmosphere. Glass shelves and small drawers are incorporated to optimize storage and usability, aligning with the piece’s practical purpose as a bar cabinet.

Condition-wise, the cabinet presents natural aging consistent with its vintage status. The wood and intarsia surfaces show minor wear and a gentle patina that adds character while maintaining structural integrity. The dimensions are 101.5 cm in width, 40.5 cm in depth, and 134.5 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 40 by 15.9 by 52.9 inches.