William Watting bookcase

The rare bookcase, model nr 85, was designed by William Watting and produced by A. Michael Laursen in Denmark. This piece is a notable example of mid-century Danish cabinetry, combining modernist sensibilities with refined craftsmanship and material harmony. Designed with both utility and aesthetics in mind, it reflects Watting’s interest in modularity and visual lightness.

Crafted in a combination of teak and oak, the bookcase features a frame of pale oak that supports a series of teak shelving units. The teak has aged into a rich, warm tone, while the oak retains a lighter hue, providing a subtle contrast that accentuates the construction and material differentiation. The shelves and panels display consistent grain patterns, with finely rounded corners and edges that emphasize the sculptural and soft character of the piece.

The overall structure is geometric, composed of vertical uprights and horizontal elements arranged with strict proportional balance. The base features an open framework that contributes to the architectural quality of the design, allowing air and light to flow through and lending the large structure a sense of lightness. The adjustable shelves enhance the functionality of the unit, accommodating various configurations for books or decorative objects.

The dimensions are substantial, measuring 210 cm in width, 48 cm in depth, and 210 cm in height (82.7 x 18.9 x 82.7 inches), making it suitable as a wall-spanning piece in larger interiors such as living rooms, libraries, or studios. Despite its size, the open and airy design prevents it from appearing heavy or dominant.

Condition is excellent, with a well-developed patina on the wood surfaces and only minimal signs of wear. The structural integrity of the joinery remains strong, and all shelves are stable and well-fitting. The bookcase exemplifies the Danish approach to modern furniture: understated yet precise, functional yet elegant.

William Watting, an American-born designer who settled in Scandinavia, collaborated with Danish manufacturers such as A. Michael Laursen during the 1950s. His designs often incorporated light proportions and modular systems, aligning with the ideals of the Danish modern movement. Model nr 85 stands as a rare and highly functional piece that captures the refined aesthetics and technical mastery of that era.