Ole Wanscher desk

This rare freestanding desk was designed by Ole Wanscher, a prominent Danish architect and furniture designer, and produced by the esteemed cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen in Denmark during the 1950s. Crafted from rosewood, the desk showcases the exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail typical of Danish cabinetmaking traditions, with elegant brass accents enhancing its refined aesthetic.

The design reflects Wanscher’s commitment to functional elegance and precise proportions, featuring a broad rectangular tabletop supported by four slightly tapered legs. The legs are capped with brass feet, adding both visual contrast and structural stability. The desk includes six drawers arranged symmetrically, three on each side, each fitted with brass handles. A central drawer beneath the tabletop offers additional storage. Inside, the drawers are constructed from lighter wood and display meticulous dovetail joinery, underscoring the high level of craftsmanship. One drawer is lockable and comes with the original brass key.

Ole Wanscher was a key figure in Scandinavian modern design, renowned for blending classical influences with modern functionalism. His collaboration with master cabinetmaker A.J. Iversen, whose workshop was celebrated for its material quality and precise execution, resulted in furniture pieces that are both timeless and highly refined.

This desk exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian modern principles with its clean lines, harmonious balance of form and function, and use of rich rosewood featuring a natural grain pattern that enhances its visual appeal. The desk measures 160 cm in width, 80 cm in depth, and 74 cm in height (63 x 31.5 x 29.1 inches) and is in excellent vintage condition, showing only minor wear consistent with careful use and age.