Alvar Aalto cabinet

This rare cabinet, designed by Alvar Aalto and produced by Artek in Finland during the 1940s, exemplifies Aalto’s signature approach to functional modernism. The design blends natural materials with organic forms, creating a piece that combines utility with human-scaled warmth.

The cabinet is primarily constructed from birch, finished in a light, natural tone that highlights the grain variations across the surfaces. The doors are flat-panel, with softly rounded edges, and feature polished brass escutcheons and a functioning key lock. The carcass sits atop a base formed by four bent birch legs, finished in black lacquer. These legs showcase Aalto’s L-leg construction technique, developed in the 1930s, where solid wood is bent to create durable, lightweight joinery. This technique became a hallmark of his furniture design and a defining feature of mid-century Scandinavian modernism.

The top of the cabinet is finished in black lacquered wood, creating a striking contrast with the lighter birch structure. Internally, the cabinet offers ample storage with six compartments, divided by vertical and horizontal shelving, allowing for practical organization.

The condition of the cabinet is very good, with age-appropriate wear. The black lacquered surfaces show minor abrasions, and the birch body displays subtle tonal variations and light patina, adding to its character. The brass hardware retains a soft, aged sheen and remains complete and functional.

The dimensions of the cabinet are 70.5 cm in width, 41 cm in depth, and 106 cm in height (approximately 27.8 inches wide, 16.1 inches deep, and 41.7 inches high). This piece remains a fine example of Aalto’s furniture design, reflecting both aesthetic simplicity and functional innovation.