Bruno Mathsson bookcase

This rare bookcase, designed by Bruno Mathsson and produced by Karl Mathsson in Värnamo, Sweden, is a refined example of Scandinavian modernist furniture from the mid-20th century. Reflecting Mathsson’s signature blend of functional clarity and organic form, the piece exemplifies the architecturally thoughtful and material-conscious design principles that defined his work.

The structure features a modular and open arrangement composed of multiple horizontal pine shelves. The pine retains a warm, honey-toned finish with subtle grain patterns that lend a tactile and natural quality to the overall appearance. The finish highlights the material’s inherent beauty without obscuring its texture, allowing the wood to visually soften the bookcase’s geometric composition.

Supporting the shelves are curved birch brackets—delicately bent and elegantly formed—that rise between the levels in a rhythmically spaced pattern. These brackets are fixed to the white vertical metal supports, which anchor the structure to the wall or floor. The birch introduces a sculptural detail, with its arcs providing a counterpoint to the otherwise rectilinear form. The contrast between the white-painted metal and the natural tones of the pine and birch underscores the balance between modernist restraint and organic warmth, a hallmark of Mathsson’s design philosophy.

The bookcase stands as a freestanding or wall-mounted system, suitable for both residential and institutional interiors. Its proportions—250 cm in width, 37 cm in depth, and 252 cm in height (98.4 x 14.6 x 99.2 inches)—allow for generous storage and display capacity without overwhelming a space. The lightness of the materials and the openness of the structure contribute to a visual transparency that prevents visual clutter.

Condition is generally good vintage. The wood surfaces display minor wear, small scuffs, and patina consistent with age and careful use. The brackets and supports remain solid and structurally intact, with the birch retaining its shape and the white-painted metal showing minor discoloration or wear that enhances its authenticity without detracting from its aesthetic integrity.

Bruno Mathsson (1907–1988) was one of Sweden’s most influential designers, renowned for his ergonomic furniture and his architectural sensibilities. Produced in collaboration with his father Karl Mathsson, this bookcase reflects their shared commitment to quality craftsmanship and elegant structural solutions. It stands as a rare and desirable example of Mathsson’s vision for modular, human-centered design—combining functional utility with formal grace.