Torbjørn Afdal cabinet

This rare bar cabinet, model Bacchus, was designed by Torbjørn Afdal in the 1960s and produced by Mellemstrands Møbelfabrik in Norway. The piece reflects Afdal’s refined modernist approach, where functionality, material richness, and elegant proportions are combined in a distinctly Scandinavian interpretation of mid-century design.

The cabinet is executed in teak with oak as secondary wood, complemented by brass and glass details. The exterior is minimal, with clean lines and gently curved handles that soften the rectilinear form. The cabinet stands on tapered legs with brass-capped feet, a detail that enhances both stability and sophistication. The structure is lifted from the ground, emphasizing lightness while maintaining a strong presence.

The interior is designed specifically for use as a bar, with mirrored back panels, glass shelving, and integrated lighting to create depth and reflection. A series of circular cut-outs in the lower section provide storage for bottles, while drawers and compartments allow for organization of smaller bar accessories. The mirrored surfaces and glass shelves enhance the cabinet’s function as both a storage unit and a display piece, highlighting Afdal’s ability to blend utility with aesthetic consideration.

Torbjørn Afdal was one of Norway’s most important post-war furniture designers, working extensively with Mellemstrands Møbelfabrik on pieces that are now regarded as defining examples of Norwegian modernism. His designs often combined restrained forms with luxurious material details, making them suitable for both private homes and diplomatic interiors.

The bar cabinet is presented in good vintage condition, with signs of usage and a patina that corresponds to its age. The surfaces, brass fittings, and interior components remain well preserved, underlining the quality of both the design and the craftsmanship.

Dimensions: width 90 cm (35.4 in), depth 40 cm (15.7 in), height 125 cm (49.2 in)