A rare and very early Alvar Aalto Shelf, Model 111, designed in 1933 and produced in Finland by Huonekalu-ja Rakennustyötehdas Oy, Turku.

This example dates from the first production and is the earliest version of the Model 111. The shelf was imported and distributed in Britain by Finmar and retains its original Finmar label, dating the piece to between 1933 and 1938 and confirming it as a pre-war example.

The construction is beautifully simple, combining an ebonised laminated birch frame with birch-veneered shelves. The dark frame provides a strong contrast with the pale birch surfaces, while the curved laminated supports give the piece the softness and lightness characteristic of Aalto’s furniture from this period.

We have dealt in Alvar Aalto furniture for many years and have also collected his work ourselves. The Model 111 is a rare design and one we do not often come across. For us, the combination of the ebonised frame, pale birch shelves and simple open construction makes it one of the more unusual pieces within Aalto’s furniture designs.

The shelf has been carefully cleaned and waxed and is presented in excellent vintage condition. The frame and shelves retain a very good surface and patina, with the signs of age and use we would expect from a piece dating from the 1930s. On close inspection there are small areas of paint loss to the ebonised frame, together with minor marks and signs of age, but none detract from the overall appearance of the piece.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.