Illums Bolighus
Denmark
1940s
Walnut and other nutwoods
41 1/4″ wide x 19 1/4″ deep x 30 3/4″ high

Ole Wanscher, like his mentor and teacher Kaare Klint, was much inspired by the works of 18th century English furniture makers, who were themselves influenced by styles of Chinese furniture that were the rage during the early days of the East India Company, as trade between England and China flowed.

What makes the designs of Klint and Wanscher so wonderfully timeless is how they translated that history of influence into their own modern vernacular. Some details of this chest that stand out to us: the subtle curve of its face, the contrast between the different veneers, the minimal ornamentation of the brass pulls.