Torsten Johansson Swedish Bentwood Modular Wine Rack, 1960s

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Torsten Johansson Swedish Rosewood Modular Wine Rack, 1960s

A sculptural and architecturally expressive Swedish Modern wine rack by Torsten Johansson … Read more Torsten Johansson Swedish Rosewood Modular Wine Rack, 1960s

A sculptural and architecturally expressive Swedish Modern wine rack by Torsten Johansson (1917–1996), executed in bent rosewood veneer over laminated plywood with contrasting solid birch supports, Sweden, circa 1960s.

The design is defined by its rhythmic, undulating wave-form construction, forming a series of interlocking, cellular compartments that cradle bottles horizontally. This honeycomb-like structure is not only visually dynamic but also structurally efficient, embodying the Scandinavian modernist principle of functional beauty. The richly figured rosewood veneer is juxtaposed against warm-toned vertical dowels, creating a refined interplay of material and tone.

Johansson’s work reflects the broader Scandinavian exploration of molded plywood techniques pioneered earlier in the century, yet here translated into a compact, highly practical object with a distinctly sculptural presence. The modular, pegged construction allows for ease of assembly and speaks to the era’s forward-thinking approach to adaptable, well-designed domestic objects.

Compact in scale yet bold in form, this piece functions equally as a tabletop wine rack or a sculptural accent within a bar or shelving arrangement—an object that bridges utility and design with effortless sophistication.

A rare and increasingly collectible example of mid-century Swedish design by a recognized modernist designer.

Materials
Rosewood veneer over bent laminated plywood with solid birch supports See less