Rosewood Miniature Series Chest by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Beautiful model 5215 Miniature chest in very good condition.

Designer: George Nelson (1908–1986)

Manufacturer: Herman Miller

Model: 5215

Series: Miniature Chests

Design year: 1952

The Herman Miller Model 5215 is part of the iconic Miniature Chests series designed by George Nelson in 1952. This elegant cabinet features six drawers arranged in a compact composition, creating a functional piece that works equally well as a small chest or table.

Crafted with exceptional attention to detail, each drawer was carefully hand-fitted to ensure perfect alignment. This traditional wood-on-wood drawer construction allows the drawers to glide smoothly and maintain their functionality over time—an example of the craftsmanship George Nelson strongly valued.

One of the drawers is designed as a jewelry drawer, fitted with internal dividers for organizing smaller items. The chest offers a collection of thoughtfully sized compartments, inspired by Japanese design principles that celebrate order, balance, and the beauty of small personal objects.

The piece is made from richly grained Indian rosewood and white laminate. It stands on a black painted die-cast aluminum pedestal base, finished with refined nickel hardware. Both practical and sculptural, the cabinet embodies the timeless modern aesthetic associated with Herman Miller.

George Nelson (1908–1986) was an American industrial designer, architect, and one of the key figures of mid-century modern design. After studying architecture at Yale University, he became Director of Design at Herman Miller in 1945, where he helped shape the company into a leader of modern furniture.

Nelson designed many iconic pieces and also collaborated with leading designers such as Charles Eames and Isamu Noguchi. His work is known for combining functionality, simplicity, and playful modern forms.

Today, George Nelson is regarded as one of the most important voices in American modern design.