Distinguished figures from design history continue to provide inspiration for today’s modern homes. Kay Bojesen is one of those figures who revolutionized design in the 1930s with his iconic solid wood handicrafts. The Menageri series by Bojesen offers the chance to enjoy an important piece of design history in your home.
Kay Bojesen’s Legacy
Born in 1886, Bojesen would become one of the most notable names in Danish design. He first trained as a silversmith in 1910, focusing on functionalism as the driving force behind his designs. After the birth of his son in 1919, memories of his own childhood began to flourish, leading him to incorporate playful elements in his work. In the 1930s, Bojeson developed a series of wooden animals that would become some of his most well known and recognizable designs. These wooden objects combined the best of fun and functionality, while also being thoughtfully designed to feel good in the hand. Bojesen’s mantra was that “the line should smile.” This guided him to tell a story through each of his characters, giving his creations a warm and inviting appeal.
In addition to his famous wooden characters, Bojesen also developed a number of practical items for the home. Using his egalitarian design philosophy, he made every day pieces feel elegant yet approachable. From bowls and cutlery to pepper grinders and egg cups, his items are crafted of solid wood and feature his signature smiling lines that add a touch of sensuousness. Bojesen achieved his vision of making great design that was not limited to elite spaces and special occasions, but part of our everyday lives.
Bojesen’s solid wood handicrafts continue to be admired by design lovers around the world. His ability to incorporate imagination, play and humor into his pieces instilled a timeless quality into every design. The commitment to good craftsmanship and beautiful details continues today through the design company he founded in 1932, which is now overseen by his youngest granddaughter, Sus Bojesen Rosenqvist.
The Menageri Series at Unison
At first glance, the pieces in the Menageri series by Kay Bojesen appear perfectly in line with modern styles, infusing simple, streamlined shapes with the warmth of wood. But as with many things, Bojesen was ahead of his time when he designed this collection, which debuted in the 1940s. The soft, organic shapes of the Menageri series serve as inviting accessories to daily meals. The rounded surfaces are pleasant to hold, from the gentle curve of each bowl to the arched handle of the serving spoon and fork. All Menageri pieces are crafted with FSC-Certified oak and feature a smooth, food-grade oiled finish. The natural, visible wood grains add to its handcrafted appeal. A timeless quality makes each bowl and server an organic and beautiful addition to your dinner table.
Whether you’re serving up fresh leafy greens, a perfectly dressed pasta salad or another appealing entrée or side, you’ll find that Menageri bowls and servers offer the durability needed for everyday meals and the elegance you desire for entertaining. The 5.5-inch Menageri Oak Bowl is ideal for single servings or optional toppings placed conveniently on the table. Use the 9.75-inch Menageri Oak Serving Bowl to present simple salads with a touch of Bojesen’s signature charm and simplicity. Complete your collection with the Menageri Oak Salad Server Set, an expertly crafted tool ready to dole out servings effortlessly. These pieces are not only utilitarian in nature, but they also bring a piece of design history into your home.
Learn more about the Menageri Collection