Description
These compact and thoroughly photogenic bentwood desks are often sold as a British design by Gordon Russell, but I’ll let you into a secret… it’s not.
Stylistically reminiscent of the Alvar Aalto designs of the early 20th Century, I believe these were in fact produced in former Czechoslovakia during the late 1950s – early 1960s.
This would align with the traditional steam-bending techniques of that region made famous by Thonet, Ton and Jindřich Halabala.
And my evidence? Well I once found a label attached to the underside of one of these desks, and although my Czech is a little shaky, Google Translate informed me it originated in the now Slovakian city of Zvolen (see final pic)
A beech veneered top ‘floats’ on stylish steam-bent legs, which frame five dovetail-jointed drawers.
The edges of the work surface are subtly sloped, and this angular detail contrasts sharply with the curved legs and bentwood drawer handles, giving the desk a distinctive, modernist look.
Sturdy construction, in excellent vintage condition and complete with two keys… and regardless of its origin I think we can all agree it’s a cracking piece of design!
H68.5cm x W99.5cm x D44.5cm
(Kneehole H67cm x W48cm)
Excellent vintage condition with clean drawers and only minor signs of age.
(Pic of label is for reference only and does not belong to this particular desk)
Free UK Mainland delivery included in the price, and please contact me to arrange a viewing in London SE24.
