A vintage swan-shaped magazine rack in brass-toned metal, probably dating from the 1960s or 1970s and attributed to Maison Jansen. Its graceful swan form, open wire construction and warm aged finish combine practical storage with sculptural elegance.
The piece
This vintage magazine rack transforms an everyday household object into an elegant sculptural form.
Modelled as a swan, the piece combines a naturalistic cast head, curved neck and webbed feet with an open wire body designed to hold magazines and newspapers. The airy construction gives it a light visual presence despite its generous proportions.
Closely comparable examples are attributed to Maison Jansen, the influential Parisian decorating house known for combining traditional forms with theatrical and refined decorative details. This example bears no visible maker’s mark, so the attribution is based on its design and its close correspondence with documented and commercially catalogued examples.
The brass-toned metal surface has developed a warm, aged finish that emphasises the modelling of the bird and the sweeping lines of the magazine compartment.
Where it works best
Perfect beside an armchair, sofa or reading corner for storing magazines and newspapers.
Its open sculptural form also lends itself to alternative uses. It can hold neatly folded hand towels in a bathroom, small throws beside a sofa or guest bed, or lightweight folders and publications in a study or boutique.
Whether used for practical storage or displayed empty, it remains a striking decorative piece in its own right.
Technical details
Type: Magazine rack
Date: c. 1960s–1970s
Attribution: Attributed to Maison Jansen
Maker’s mark: No visible maker’s mark
Material: Brass-toned metal
Finish: Warm aged metallic finish
Design: Swan with open wire magazine compartment
Dimensions: Approx. 45 cm high × 60 cm wide × 43 cm deep (17.7 × 23.6 × 16.9 in)
Condition
Good vintage condition, with light signs of age and use consistent with its period.
The brass-toned finish displays a gentle aged patina together with minor surface wear that enhances the character of the piece. The structure remains stable and fully functional for everyday use.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.
Decorative accessories shown in the photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
An elegant vintage piece that combines sculptural design with everyday practicality, bringing timeless character to both classic and contemporary interiors.
