Kurt Olsen bookcase

This rare and distinctive bookcase was designed by Kurt Olsen and produced by A. Andersen & Bohm in Denmark during the 1950s. The piece combines walnut and white lacquered wood, demonstrating Olsen’s refined approach to balancing architectural structure, contrasting materials, and a sense of lightness—hallmarks of mid-century Scandinavian design.

The lower section functions as a sideboard, featuring tambour doors made from narrow vertical walnut slats. These doors conceal an interior fitted with maple compartments and drawers. The front edges display subtle curvature, while the base is raised on tapered legs connected by a sculptural apron, lending the piece an elevated and visually open appearance. The tambour doors slide smoothly into the case sides, allowing full access without requiring extra clearance space.

The upper section consists of four floating white lacquered shelves, supported by vertical walnut uprights arranged to create a sense of openness and rhythmic spacing. The rear panel is veneered in figured walnut, providing a rich visual backdrop to the shelving. The contrast between the white lacquer and the darker walnut introduces a graphic quality that aligns with Olsen’s style, which skillfully blends organic materials with geometric clarity.

Kurt Olsen, active in the Danish design movement of the mid-20th century, is known for elegant, furniture-scale interpretations of Danish modernism. His work often marries classic wood craftsmanship with understated modern aesthetics. While less widely known than some contemporaries, his pieces are valued by collectors for their subtle sculptural detail and rarity.

Produced by A. Andersen & Bohm, a smaller Danish cabinetmaker recognized for quality execution, this example is in very good vintage condition. The walnut surfaces exhibit a consistent deep tone with minor wear and age-related signs. The lacquered shelves show slight traces of use but retain a uniform finish. The sliding tambour doors and interior compartments are intact and fully functional.

The overall dimensions are 210 cm in width, 50 cm in depth, and 180 cm in height (approximately 82.7 x 19.7 x 70.9 inches). The sideboard section alone measures approximately 69.5 cm (27.4 inches) in height.