Björn Trägårdh box

This rare decorative box was designed by Björn Trägårdh and produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden circa 1930. It is an exemplary work of early Swedish functionalism, combining a minimalist sensibility with refined craftsmanship and subtle ornamentation. Created during a period of growing interest in industrial materials and clean design, the piece reflects both the aesthetic values of its time and Trägårdh’s distinct vision.

Constructed primarily from pewter, the box has a matte, silvery-grey surface with a soft, tactile quality. The body is rectangular in form with precise, planar sides and a flat lid, embodying the clarity and restraint that characterized functionalist design. The proportion is well-balanced, with a low, broad stance that emphasizes its horizontal lines. Four small brass feet elevate the form slightly, offering both visual lift and a contrast in color and material. The warm tone of the brass provides a deliberate accent to the cooler pewter, enriching the overall composition.

A central sculptural feature defines the lid: a stylized ship motif in pewter, complete with upright masts and simplified rigging, executed in a geometric and linear style. The ship functions as both decorative object and symbolic centerpiece, suggesting themes of navigation, modernity, and Swedish identity. The stylization of the vessel aligns with the modernist ethos of abstraction and reduced form, while still maintaining a sense of narrative and cultural reference.

Condition is consistent with the box’s age. The pewter exhibits a natural patina, with minor surface marks and soft tonal variation, indicative of its nearly century-old provenance. These characteristics contribute to its historical authenticity and visual richness. The brass feet show some oxidation and age-related discoloration, which further affirms the originality of the materials.

Björn Trägårdh (1908–1998) was a central figure in Swedish design during the interwar period. His work with Svenskt Tenn, under the direction of Estrid Ericson, contributed significantly to the evolution of Swedish modern decorative arts. Known for his synthesis of utility and elegance, Trägårdh designed furniture and objects that bridged functionalist rigor with artistic sensitivity. This box stands as a testament to his design philosophy: refined, purpose-driven, and aesthetically enduring.

Measuring 20 cm in width, 12.5 cm in depth, and 14.5 cm in height (7.9 x 4.9 x 5.7 inches), the box is compact yet striking, suitable for display as a functional object or as a collectible artifact of early 20th-century Scandinavian design.