Swedish Modern “Oresund” Oak Bookcase and Dresser by Borge Mogensen

MODEL "ØRESUND" OAK BOOKCASE AND EIGHT-DRAWER DRESSER BY BØRGE MOGENSEN
Executed by Karl Andersson & Söner, Sweden circa 1960s; original label inside bookcase

33" H x 53" W x 14 1/4" D [bookcase]
33" H x 53" W x 21 1/2" D [dresser]
Total height 66" [stacked]

ref. 904VPK13Z-1

A striking and fine quality bookcase cabinet from the third quarter of the 20th century, the chest and bookcase were part of his Øresund line of furniture. Crafted with a patinated white oak both in solid woods and veneers, it is finished to a delightful mild blonde.

Unlike many of his mid-century counterparts, the furniture designed by Børge Mogensen and executed by the firm of Karl Andersson & Söner showed traditional attention to detail in the execution. In the present example, this manifests in the use of solid wood core beneath the veneers, employing full dovetailing of the drawers, utilizing tenon-mortise joinery in the bookcase doors and designing the traditional drawer supports that utilize grooves in the wood instead of metal hardware to allow the drawers to smoothly move in the case.

They are rather flexible in the design, both upper and lower fully self-contained and not relying on the other for support. As such, they can be separated into a standing bookcase and matching standing dresser - or stacked, to create a full console bookcase. Both presentations are equally attractive and fully finished.

The upper bookcase retains an original label for Karl Andersson & Söner.

Condition Report: Good original condition with a nicely patinated early surface. Small veneer losses, including the bottom edge of one drawer and chipping at corners/edges of the dresser as well as two spots of veneer loss to the top (see images). Minor scuffs, scratches and blemishes as expected. Spot of discoloration to the top of the dresser and some fading to the top of the bookcase. Overall a fine presentation, ready to place.