Attr. Arne Basse - Figure - Teak

Arne Basse (attributed) – Danish teak bird – corkscrew & bottle opener – 1950s/60s

A particularly distinctive and humorous example of Danish Mid-Century Modern design from the 1950s: this sculptural wooden bird combines a decorative design object with as many as two practical bar accessories.

The design is attributed in international design trade to the Danish designer Arne Basse. Referred to simply as “Bird” / bird-shaped bar accessory and executed in solid teak in combination with metal components.

At first glance it is a charming stylized bird, built from beautifully shaped wooden parts. The round head with its characteristic large eyes, long contrasting wooden beak and striking blue crest give it a playful and immediately recognizable character.

The special feature lies in the construction. The bird can be taken completely apart, after which the individual parts reveal their hidden function:

* the wooden foot contains a metal corkscrew;
* in the round body there is a metal bottle opener integrated;
* head, body and foot can then be reassembled into one complete decorative bird.

The same construction principle is described for a Danish example from Antique Leaves, where it is specifically noted that the head and the foot section are removable.

The combination of functionality, organic forms and a hefty dose of humor is characteristic of Scandinavian design usage from this period. This makes the object both a practical piece of vintage barware and an attractive standalone design object.

Designer: attributed to Arne Basse
Origin: Denmark
Period: 1950s
Style: Danish Modern / Mid-Century Modern
Material: teak/hardwood and metal
Execution: 3-piece
Functions: decorative bird, corkscrew and bottle opener
Manufacturer: unknown / unmarked

Dimensions: H 14.7 cm x W 19.5 cm x D 4.7 cm
Weight: 117 grams

Condition

The object is in beautiful and authentic vintage condition, with normal use and age-related signs consistent with an item used for about 65–75 years. The metal parts show localized patina/oxidation. The wood has a lovely warm color and lively grain.

The bird is complete, including corkscrew, bottle opener, wooden bill and the distinctive blue crest. See the extensive photos for the exact condition and the ingenious three-part construction.

A charming and now hard-to-find piece of Danish Mid-Century barware, in which sculpture, humor and functionality come together in a typically Scandinavian manner.

This item will be securely packed for smart shipping, sent registered and insured with tracking.