Hans Hansen box

This rare decorative box was designed by Hans Hansen and produced in Denmark during the 1950s. It is crafted from solid rosewood, which features distinctive dark and light grain patterns, enhancing the visual appeal of the piece. The lid is adorned with fine sterling silver inlays, showcasing a rectilinear motif composed of three concentric rectangles, symmetrically aligned. In the center of the design, three square sterling silver plaques are placed, with the outer two plaques marked “1971” and “1975”. A matching sterling silver pull tab is mounted on the front face of the box, providing a functional yet elegant touch.

The rosewood itself has a warm reddish-brown tone, complemented by dramatic linear grain patterns that are polished to a soft satin sheen, bringing out the natural beauty of the material. The sterling silver details contrast with the wood, adding precision and visual interest. The overall design reflects the principles of Danish modernism, with clean lines, restrained decoration, and an emphasis on high-quality materials. The underside of the box is marked with a circular silver stamp reading “925 S STERLING DENMARK” indicating the authenticity of the sterling silver components.

Hans Hansen, known for his expertise in silverwork and modernist jewelry, was a significant figure in 20th-century Danish design. His firm, established in Kolding, Denmark, produced a wide range of finely crafted silver and wood objects that exemplified clarity of form and meticulous attention to detail. This box is a prime example of Hansen’s approach, merging decorative and functional design elements to create a piece that serves both as an object of beauty and practicality.

The condition of the box is good, showing some light surface wear and fine scratches to both the wood and silver, consistent with its age and use.

The box measures 22.5 cm wide, 14.5 cm deep, and 4.5 cm high (approximately 8.9 inches wide, 5.7 inches deep, and 1.8 inches high).