A rare and very early Alvar Aalto chest of drawers, dating from 1935 and produced in Finland by Huonekalu-ja Rakennustyötehdas Oy, Turku.

The chest was imported into Britain by Finmar, the British importer and distributor of Aalto’s furniture during the 1930s, and retains its original Finmar label. The date and surviving label make this a particularly good example from the first years of Aalto furniture production.

Constructed from birch and birch-veneered plywood, the chest is arranged over five rows of drawers, with the upper row divided into two smaller drawers and four full-width drawers below. The cabinet is raised on Aalto’s characteristic bent birch L-legs, one of the defining features of his furniture from this period. The curved legs soften the otherwise simple rectangular form of the cabinet and give what is a substantial and practical piece of furniture a surprising lightness.

What we especially like about this chest is its restraint. There is very little decoration and the construction is extremely simple, with the proportions, pale birch and contrasting black drawer pulls providing almost all of its character. Over the years the black finish to the pulls has worn naturally in the areas of greatest use, revealing the birch beneath. It is a small detail, but one that gives the chest a great deal of individuality and provides a wonderful record of its use over the past ninety years.

We purchased the chest directly from the family of the original owner, who had not only lovingly looked after it but had also had it professionally restored. As a result, the chest is presented in excellent vintage condition while retaining its wonderful colour and patina.

As with all vintage furniture of this age, there are small dings, dents and signs of previous use, but none that stand out or detract from its overall appearance.

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.