‎‎Featuring Danish designer, Henning Kjærnulf’s distinctive scallop motif, this sideboard melds seamlessly with any style thanks to its elegant sense of whimsy. The oak form is elemental, enhanced by the sculptural carvings.

The evolution of mid-century design was a direct consequence of accepting, continuing, and further developing the ideas of the modern movement. This in turn brought about a ‘softer’ version of the modern movement by adopting natural, organic forms. A new aspect was the attitude towards tradition; by interpreting the vernacular craft tradition of the 19th century, modern design acquired a ‘human’ face and turned to wood. In Kjærnulf’s case, the wood of choice was oak, a durable long-lasting material that is the perfect canvas for the intricate carved shapes and details to take form. The functional and decorative elements of the design are treated equally, resulting in a stunning but balanced look. The design features versatile storage solutions, divided into four larger doors with drawers and shelves behind them and four symmetrically arranged drawers on the bottom. Both in- and outside the compartments are full of details that speak of the highest level of craftsmanship and of the functional considerations. The four drawers on the top are lined with a green fabric, while the doors and drawers can be locked with small keys. These small functional elements also serve an aesthetic function besides the carved front and scalloped bottom. The mixture of round and straight shapes is used masterfully, giving depth to the blonde oak.

The only thing that is hard to decide in the case of this sideboard is where to look first, as there is no doubt about the aesthetic or material quality. Henning Kjærnulf’s vision was manifested by A/S Nyrup Møbelfabrik, a Danish manufactory with roots dating back to 1905 and exhibitions in none other than Copenhagen’s Tivoli.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:

87 in W x 19.48 in D x 47.24 in H

221 cm W x 49.5 cm D x 120 cm H

About the designer:

Danish mid-century designer and architect, Henning Kjaernulf is somewhat of a mystery. A lot more is known about his designs than Kjaernulf himself. His wooden designs, crafted to perfection, speak for themselves. Kjaernulf mainly designed for the Danish manufacturers EG Kvalitetsmobel, Nyrup Møbelfabrik, and Vejle Stole Møbelfabrik. The latter produced the designer’s well-known teak extending dining table design. The historic archives of the Danish municipality, Stenlille, reveal the history of Nyrup Møbelfabrik, mentioning Kjaernulf’s architectural designs for the company’s factory, referring to him as an architect based in Odense, Denmark.

Kjaernulf’s works reveal quality craftsmanship throughout, featuring clean Danish modern era lines with sculpted edges and shapes. The unique shapes, like his razorblade chair backrests, distinguish the designer from other Danish mid-century designers.

In light of how sought after his dining sets and lounge chairs are, it remains a mystery why so little is known about the designer. The curious background of Kjaernulf if anything, adds more charm to his pieces.~H.