Alpine Collection
Cooperage Wall Mirror
The Cooperage Wall Mirror was initially inspired by the silhouette of classic Alpine milking pails. Its exterior reveals the handiwork of a dying craft in Switzerland.
“This handsome wall mirror is a hardy design that will stand the test of time.”
—Monocle
Made from solid European ash, the Cooperage Wall Mirror’s inside reveals sixteen geometric facets. The facets used, as individual solid pieces of wood, allow for little-to-no expansion or reduction in material—adding to the mirror’s longevity.
Honoring this construction method, the facets on the inside of the mirror's frame are visually maintained, while the outside is rounded. This brings modernity while still referencing its origin.
Reflecting tradition and modernity, each mirror is individually carved with heritage Swiss patterns through the craft of Schnitzerei.
This particular carving technique is practiced alongside Weissküferei to adorn Swiss herdsman’s equipment—adding to the rich farming customs and traditions within Switzerland. Schnitzerei was once a booming industry in Switzerland due to the economic up-turn from the popularity of goat’s milk in the 18th century. Today, only five individuals still practice in Eastern Switzerland.
The Seitz family comes from a lineage of potters who, in the late 1800s, applied unique patterns to bowls, plates, and terrines with a Malhörnchen (cow horn). This was a common ancient technique used on all earthenware across the ceramic regions in Europe. The application of these family patterns were reimagined to be transferred to the craft of Schnitzerei.
At first glance, it may appear to be simple and modern. But, as you get closer and inspect the details, the history behind it becomes more apparent—every time you look in the mirror.
Alpine Cooperage
Weissküferei is a historic, traditional Swiss craft and refers to the manufacture of various equipment for dairy and Alpine farming from local wood such as light maple or spruce.
A Cooper joins staves together; Landesmuseum Zürich, 1943
The craft started at the beginning of the 19th century and was a teaching profession until 2008. Weissküferei specializes in products that consist of curves or curved shapes. When manufacturing containers, the craftspeople cut wood into specially shaped wooden boards (staves). They join them together and form round or oval crockery and containers. The staves are held together by hand-made maple hoops.
A Cooper carves patterns onto a Fahreimer; Landesmuseum Zürich, 1943
After the containers have been made in the raw state, the elaborate carving decoration, known as Schnitzerei, begins by hand.
The Cooperage Wall Mirror is produced in a 45 year old family cooperage—run by Hans Mösli and his nephew Reto. The two turn the frame and hand carve the patterns out of their Appenzell workshop.
The Alpine Wall Mirror comes in two finishes: natural or ebonized.
Details
Pricing available upon request
The Cooperage Wall Mirror is made-to-order in our fifth generation joinery workshop in Berneck, Switzerland and finished with hand carved patterns in Appenzell.
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FSC certified 100% solid European ash in a natural or ebonized finish with (or without) hand carved patterns
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850 mm W x 850 mm H x 100 mm D
33 ½ in W x 33 ½ in H x 4 in D -
6–8 weeks
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We ship world-wide and are happy to arrange shipment on your behalf with our preferred carrier. Made-to-order and long distance delivery costs must be determined by quote and may take up to three business days to procure. Should you prefer to arrange your own shipment, we are happy to have items available for pick-up. All merchandise must be paid in full prior to pick-up or shipment.
Because of the custom, made-to-order nature of our work, we are not able to accept returns or offer exchanges. Once your order is placed, cancellations will not be permitted.
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Accolades
2023
Iconic Award: Innovative Interior Furniture
German Design Award: Excellent Product Design, Home Textiles and Home Accessories
2022
European Product Design Award: Honoree, Home Interior Products
Dezeen Award: Nomination, Homeware Design
NYCxDesign Award: Honoree, Accessories
