Hans-Agne Jakobsson hand mirror

This hand mirror measures 26.5 cm in height, 15 cm in width, and has a depth of 1.5 cm, presenting an elegant, elongated outline. The circular mirror surface is framed by a slim brass band approximately 5 mm thick, its warm golden tone gently mellowed by a fine patina. The overall silhouette is balanced and poised, the round reflective pane giving way to a bifurcated handle that recalls a Y-shaped branch, lending both visual lightness and structural clarity.

The reverse side is finished in a deep black lacquer or enamel, providing a striking backdrop for a decorative ring of stylized floral or starburst motifs. Rendered in muted shades of powder blue, soft lavender, and creamy off-white, these painted elements form a symmetrical wreath around the central boss, their geometric abstraction hinting at 1950s graphic design trends. The contrast between the glossy black ground and the pastel ornamentation creates a playful tension with the mirror’s otherwise utilitarian aspect.

Construction emphasizes both tactility and refined engineering. Two parallel brass rods extend downward from the frame, each wrapped in a tight coil of slender brass wire to form the handle grip. This coiled texture offers a secure, comfortable hold while reflecting Jakobsson’s early experience in decorative metalwork. The rods converge seamlessly into the frame, their junction cleanly welded to preserve the mirror’s minimalist profile.

Hans-Agne Jakobsson (1919–2009) was foremost celebrated for his pioneering lighting designs, yet this mirror reveals his versatility in smaller-scale objects. After training under masters such as Carl Malmsten and working with Werner West, Jakobsson founded Hans-Agne Jakobsson AB in Markaryd in 1951. Although lighting defined his career, occasional accessories like this mirror showcase his ability to marry functional clarity with decorative flourish in brass.

The piece is in good vintage condition. The glass is free of scratches or chips, and the frame exhibits only light surface marks and gentle tonal variation consistent with age. The lacquered reverse retains its glossy finish, with minimal wear to the painted motifs. Overall, the mirror’s structural integrity and the subtle patination of the brass speak to careful use and dignified aging, making it a refined example of mid-century Scandinavian accessory design.