1960s Iconic Jens Quistgaard for Dansk Staved Teak “Congo” Ice Bucket, Denmark

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A striking example of Danish Modern design at its most sculptural. This tall staved teak ice bucket was designed by … Read more A striking example of Danish Modern design at its most sculptural. This tall staved teak ice bucket was designed by the legendary Jens Harald Quistgaard (JHQ) for Dansk Designs, Denmark, circa 1960s — and it’s one of the most coveted pieces in his extensive barware canon.
The “Congo” model is immediately recognizable for its dramatic form: a stave-constructed teak body that tapers gracefully from a wide base to a narrow neck, crowned with an elegant arched swing handle. The construction technique — known as coopering — involves assembling individual teak staves to create a seamless, barrel-like vessel from solid wood rather than bent or laminated material. The result is a piece of functional sculpture as impressive on a bar cart as it is in a display collection.
The interior retains its original red plastic liner, characteristic of this earlier Denmark-made production run. The underside is hand-stamped with the maker’s mark, consistent with authenticated Quistgaard/Dansk pieces. The lid features a small inset oval pull handle.
Condition: Good vintage condition consistent with 60+ years of age. Surface shows light wear and minor scratches to the teak exterior. The red plastic liner is intact with some light wear. The swing handle is solid and functional. No major chips, cracks, or repairs to the wood.
Designer: Jens Harald Quistgaard (JHQ)
Manufacturer: Dansk Designs
Origin: Denmark
Period: circa 1960s
Material: Staved teak, red plastic liner
Style: Danish Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern See less