Kai Kristiansen mirror

This wall mirror was designed by Danish designer Kai Kristiansen and produced by the cabinetmaker Aksel Kjersgaard in Odder, Denmark, during the 1950s. It is a refined example of mid-century Danish craftsmanship, characterized by precision joinery, restrained decoration, and a focus on the intrinsic beauty of materials.

The mirror is framed in solid rosewood, a richly grained and now highly prized tropical hardwood that was commonly used in Danish furniture of the period. The wood displays a deep brown hue with variegated darker streaks and a smooth, polished surface that emphasizes its natural texture. The frame’s rectangular profile is softened by inwardly beveled inner edges at the corners, a subtle but deliberate design element that highlights Kristiansen’s attention to form and proportion.

The craftsmanship is evidenced by tight mitred joints with visible joinery details at the lower corners, including round wooden plugs, which function both structurally and decoratively. The construction is clean and minimal, drawing attention to the quality of the material and the mirror surface itself rather than embellishment.

The reverse bears the branded manufacturer’s mark: “AKSEL KJERSGAARD ODDER MADE IN DENMARK” along with the Danish Furnituremakers Control stamp, indicating verified quality and origin. Aksel Kjersgaard was known for producing furniture to a very high standard, often in collaboration with designers such as Kristiansen, and the company played an important role in exporting Danish modern design internationally during the mid-20th century.

This piece is typical of Scandinavian modern design, where utility and aesthetic are seamlessly integrated through honest materials and refined form. The mirror can function equally well in a hallway, bedroom, or dressing area, and its vertical orientation and modest dimensions make it versatile in use.

The dimensions are 44 cm in width, 3 cm in depth, and 105 cm in height, which converts to approximately 17.3 inches wide, 1.2 inches deep, and 41.3 inches high.