Sture Lindholm & David Rosén cabinet

This bar cabinet is a unique and historically significant piece, designed in collaboration by Sture Lindholm and David Rosén and produced by Per Jönsson’s Verkstäder in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1934. It was executed as an apprentice work (gesällprov), demonstrating the highest level of craftsmanship and creativity. The cabinet is constructed from teak, macassar ebony, lemonwood, and other fine woods, with intricate inlays of pewter, silver, and additional woods that create decorative motifs on the exterior and interior panels.

The façade is articulated with two doors featuring striking inlaid imagery, including stylized faces and botanical elements rendered in contrasting woods and metals. The cabinet stands elevated on four turned legs with carved collars and dark-stained finish, giving it a light and elegant stance despite its substantial proportions. The interior is highly detailed, containing drawers, shelving, and bottle compartments, as well as a fold-down section for preparing drinks. The right interior door is decorated with a lively inlaid bar scene showing three figures in a moment of revelry, an artistic and playful touch typical of the period’s decorative arts.

The piece is firmly rooted in the Art Deco style, visible in its geometric proportions, choice of exotic veneers, and luxurious decorative program. The combination of materials—teak, macassar, lemonwood, pewter, and silver—creates a rich visual contrast, while the inlays provide narrative and character, elevating the cabinet beyond a purely functional object into a statement of design skill.

This example measures 130 cm in width, 46 cm in depth, and 125 cm in height (approximately 51.2 x 18.1 x 49.2 inches). It survives in good vintage condition with a warm patina and some signs of use, consistent with age. One fitting is missing, but the piece retains its overall integrity and remains a rare testament to early Scandinavian Art Deco furniture, combining fine joinery, artistic ambition, and a glimpse into the designer’s early career achievements.