Ole Wanscher cabinet

This very rare cabinet was designed by Ole Wanscher in 1954 and produced by the master cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen in Denmark. The piece is crafted from rosewood with brass hardware, showcasing a refined combination of classical restraint and modernist precision, characteristic of Danish mid-century cabinetmaking.

The cabinet is elevated on gracefully tapered legs, with a horizontal stretcher providing both structural integrity and visual balance. The upper portion features two large doors veneered in bookmatched rosewood, which open to reveal an interior with adjustable shelving made from matching rosewood. Below the cabinet body are two shallow drawers integrated into the apron, each with circular brass ring pulls. The drawers slide out smoothly with exposed wood runners, serving as functional pull-out trays.

The construction emphasizes clarity of proportion and delicacy in detail. The rosewood displays a warm, reddish-brown tone, with rich, linear grain patterns that vary from golden brown to darker, near-black striations. The joinery is finely executed, with mitred and rounded corners enhancing the softness of the silhouette. The brass ring pulls contrast gently with the rosewood surfaces, providing a subtle decorative element that aligns with Wanscher’s understated style.

Ole Wanscher (1903–1985) was a key figure in Danish modern design, known for his academic approach to furniture rooted in classical traditions and craftsmanship. After studying under Kaare Klint, Wanscher developed a style that fused historical influences with modern principles of simplicity and structure. A.J. Iversen was one of Denmark’s most esteemed cabinetmakers and collaborated with Wanscher and other leading designers to produce limited, high-quality furniture using traditional methods.

The dimensions of the cabinet are 112 cm wide, 40 cm deep, and 154.5 cm high, which corresponds to approximately 44.1 inches in width, 15.7 inches in depth, and 60.8 inches in height. The cabinet is in excellent condition, showing minimal signs of wear, with a well-preserved patina consistent with careful use and age.