Teak Coat Stand by Aksel Kjersgaard for Nissen & Gehl, 1950s

Both a designer and a manufacturer, Aksel Kjersgaard created and produced furniture at the height of the Danish mid-century modern movement.

In 1952, after working and traveling through Europe and Morocco, Kjersgaard returned to Denmark and established his eponymous production company. In 1955 Aksel Kjersgaard A/S began producing cabinets , dressers , consoles , and sideboards — carrying all the hallmarks of Danish Modernism—in woods with beautiful grains such as rosewood and teak; and featuring clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic.

Kjersgaard collaborated with iconic Danish designer Kai Kristiansen in the 1950s and ‘60s, and Ebbe Gehl & Søren Nissen from 1970, both of whom  had previously worked for Rud. Rasmussen in Copenhagen. Although there are few production dates or model names available, Kjersgaard’s works are stamped and/or numbered, making them easy to identify and desirable on the vintage market. In fact, many pieces are stamped “Odder”, which is an indication of provenance not production (despite many incorrect attributions): Kjergaard designs were (and continue to be) produced in the Danish municipality of Odder.

As both as designer and a manufacturer, Kjersgaard’s contribution to the Danish (and Scandinavian) design history is undoubtedly important. Today, Aksel Kjersgaard A/S is run by his son and continues to produce furniture under the name Naver Collection.