Yngve Ekström cabinet

The Bangkok cabinet is a rare storage cabinet designed by Yngve Ekström during the 1950s and produced by Westbergs Möbler in Sweden. Executed in teak veneer over a solid beech framework, the cabinet displays the refined craftsmanship and restrained elegance associated with Swedish Modern furniture. Raised on slender tapered legs connected by gently curved stretchers, the cabinet has a light architectural presence despite its generous storage capacity. The warm reddish-brown teak grain is complemented by discreet brass hardware, while the sculptural top rail introduces a subtle curvature that softens the otherwise rectilinear form.

The defining feature of the cabinet is its pair of doors, each decorated with an intricately carved geometric relief composed of elongated trapezoidal and rectangular motifs arranged in a repeating pattern. This relief creates a sophisticated play of light and shadow across the teak surface, adding depth and texture without relying on applied ornament. The cabinet retains its original key and brass escutcheon, reinforcing its period character. Inside, the cabinet is fitted with adjustable shelves and integrated shallow trays, providing versatile storage for tableware, documents or personal collections. The interior is finished in lighter beech, creating a pleasing contrast with the darker teak exterior.

Yngve Ekström (1913–1988) was one of Sweden’s foremost furniture designers and a central figure in the development of Scandinavian Modern design. Best known for combining traditional cabinetmaking techniques with modern production methods, his work is characterised by clean structural forms, careful attention to proportion and an emphasis on functionality. While internationally recognised for iconic seating designs such as the Lamino chair, Ekström also produced a number of highly refined storage pieces that demonstrate his interest in architectural geometry and exceptional woodworking.

Westbergs Möbler was a respected Swedish furniture manufacturer active during the mid-twentieth century, producing high-quality furnishings that reflected the ideals of Scandinavian craftsmanship. The company’s collaboration with designers such as Yngve Ekström resulted in furniture distinguished by precise joinery, carefully selected veneers and understated detailing. Cabinets from this period remain sought after for their durable construction, functional interiors and timeless design language.

Designed during the 1950s, the Bangkok cabinet represents the mature phase of Scandinavian Modernism, where decorative expression was integrated directly into the structure rather than added as ornament. The carved geometric door fronts anticipate later Scandinavian relief patterns while maintaining the restrained elegance characteristic of Swedish furniture from the era. The balanced proportions, elevated stance and harmonious combination of teak, beech and brass make the cabinet suitable as both a practical storage piece and a sculptural interior element. This example is photographed together with another matching cabinet (item no. 143918), which is available separately, allowing the possibility of creating a symmetrical pair.

The cabinet is in good vintage condition with small signs of age and use consistent with its period. The teak veneer retains a rich and even colour with minor surface wear, while the interior shelves and trays remain well preserved. The brass fittings show a natural patina, and the cabinet presents well with a stable construction and an attractive original finish.

Width 121 cm (47.6 in). Depth 46 cm (18.1 in). Height 161 cm (63.4 in).