Henry Walter Klein sideboard

This very rare sideboard, designed by Henry Walter Klein and produced by Bramin Møbler in Denmark during the 1960s, is a quintessential example of Scandinavian mid-century design—unifying material richness, functional refinement, and an elegantly modern aesthetic. Klein’s architectural training and design sensibility are evident throughout the piece, which reflects a masterful handling of form and proportion combined with a dedication to utility.

Crafted in richly figured rosewood, the sideboard displays book-matched veneer across the front panels, creating a symmetrical and rhythmically mirrored grain pattern that draws the eye horizontally. The rosewood’s deep, warm tonal range—varying from honeyed browns to darker streaks—adds a layer of visual depth, especially as light moves across its surface. This natural ornamentation eliminates the need for superfluous decoration, in keeping with Klein’s modernist ideals.

The left side of the sideboard houses four drawers, each integrated with recessed handles that preserve the clean geometry of the piece. These handles are subtly carved into the drawer fronts, adding a tactile element without disrupting the visual continuity of the wood grain. On the right, a pair of tambour doors slide smoothly into the sides to reveal a spacious cabinet area with adjustable shelving—an intelligent solution that conserves space and reinforces the piece’s linearity. The tambour doors, composed of thin, curved wood slats, are both a technical and aesthetic achievement, showcasing the skill of Bramin’s cabinetmakers.

Raised on slender, tapered rosewood legs, the sideboard achieves a balance between solidity and visual lightness. The elevated form gives the piece a poised, floating appearance, in contrast to more grounded, block-like storage furniture of the same era. This design strategy aligns with Scandinavian design principles that emphasize spatial clarity and a light touch, even in larger furniture forms.

Henry Walter Klein (1919–1990) was a Norwegian-born designer who contributed significantly to the Danish modern movement. Known for his rigorous attention to detail and the understated sophistication of his designs, Klein collaborated with several notable manufacturers, including Bramin, to produce furnishings that married precision craftsmanship with restrained elegance.

Bramin Møbler, active throughout the mid-20th century, was one of Denmark’s premier furniture manufacturers, known for its high-quality production methods and partnerships with leading designers. The brand’s emphasis on craftsmanship, innovation, and material integrity is clearly reflected in this sideboard.

Measuring 190 cm in width, 44 cm in depth, and 76.5 cm in height (74.8 x 17.3 x 30.1 inches), the sideboard is appropriately scaled for both private and public interiors—suited to living rooms, dining spaces, or offices where its presence can be appreciated as both a utilitarian object and a sculptural focal point.

The piece is in excellent vintage condition, with a rich patina and only minor signs of wear consistent with its age. Its preservation underscores the quality of materials and workmanship and ensures that it remains a collectible and functional piece for decades to come. As such, this sideboard stands as a refined representation of Klein’s design legacy and the enduring appeal of Danish modern craftsmanship.