Carl-Axel Acking mirror

This foldable wall mirror was designed by Carl-Axel Acking and produced by Bodafors Möbelfabrik in Sweden in the late 1940s. The mirror consists of a central mirrored panel with two hinged side wings, allowing it to be opened or closed depending on use. When closed, the front features blue leather panels framed in mahogany, with decorative stitching arranged in a repeating geometric pattern. The leather is finished with a row of brass nailheads along the edges, giving the piece a refined and durable surface. The hinges are made of brass, shaped with small decorative flourishes.

The frame is executed in mahogany with a warm tone and visible grain structure. Both the central panel and the side wings have subtly curved upper and lower rails, giving the mirror a gentle arched silhouette. When opened, the mirror reveals three reflective surfaces that provide a wide field of view, suitable for dressing or interior display. When closed, the mirror functions as a decorative wall panel with textile-like character due to the leather upholstery. The craftsmanship reflects Carl-Axel Acking’s attention to proportion, detailing, and the combination of functional design with fine materials.

According to period documentation and surviving examples, this mirror model was likely produced for Hotel Malmen in Stockholm between 1949 and 1952. Acking was responsible for several interior elements of the hotel, designing furniture and fixtures that balanced modern Swedish design principles with high craftsmanship. This mirror belongs to that corpus and represents a rare example of custom hotel furniture from the era.

The piece is in good vintage condition with signs of age, surface wear to the leather, minor patina on the brass, and small marks consistent with use over time.

Closed: 45 × 6 × 86 cm (approximately 17.7 × 2.4 × 33.9 inches)
Open: 88.5 × 3 × 86 cm (approximately 34.8 × 1.2 × 33.9 inches)