Description

This is a very rare model vintage mid-century sideboard by renowned makers McIntosh of Kirkclady. The Danish design influence can be clearly seen on this gorgeous retro sideboard. To the left of the bank of drawers is a drinks cabinet with a drop-front door and a clever little slide-out tray upon which you may mix your cocktail of choice. There’s originally been a small shelf in this cabinet but this has been removed at some point. To the right of the drawers, ample storage is available in the shape of a shelved double cupboard. The design of the drawers is so clever, sleek and beautiful, with modernist/minimalist lines not often found in mid century sideboards. The centre drawer is felt-lined and has cutlery dividers built in. This model also has those oh-so-desirable ‘sled’ style legs and the grain on the top surface of the sideboard is to-die-for.

Scottish furniture manufacturer McIntosh is best known on the vintage market for their mid-century style furniture, particularly for teak cabinetry and sideboards. Founded in 1869 by Alexander Henry (A.H) McIntosh (1835-1919) in Kirkcaldy, Fife. The business quickly grew in size, requiring new, larger premises just a decade later. In 1879, McIntosh bought a new factory and opened Victoria Cabinet Works a year later.

Though little information regarding McIntosh’s early designs is available, it is known that the factory—like many British enterprises—joined the war effort during the First World War. With most workers (including the founder’s grandson, Henry) called up to enlist, the McIntosh factory began manufacturing airplane wings and other parts for the duration of the war. During this time, Alexander Henry’s son Thomas Wishart McIntosh (1861–1933), headed the family business from London, where McIntosh had established an office.

Despite an aesthetic that could be mistaken as Danish modern, the company marketed itself, both at home and abroad, as a proud Scottish firm that utilized traditional processes and that employed local, highly-skilled cabinetmakers. The McIntosh label, which survives on many 1950s and 1960s pieces, shows the Scottish thistle and crown, a long-time symbol of Scotland. From 1948 until 1983, Tom Robertson worked as head designer for the firm; creating his most notable design, the teak Dunvegan sideboard (1960s) known for its sculpted handles.

Condition is super as we’ve had the top, front, legs and ends of the sideboard refinished to a high standard by a professional restorer.

L210 x D49 H81cm