Lot 60
  • 60

Josef Frank

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
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Description

  • Josef Frank
  • 'Flora' Bureau, model no. 2131
  • with paper label Josef Frank / Svenskt Tenn / 1952
  • mahogany-veneered wood, mahogany, brass, printed paper

Condition

Overall good condition consistent with age and usage. Scuff marks and scratches to the legs of the piece. A minor scratch to the top of the bureau, approximately 4 cm long. Scattered minor circular stains to the shelf of the piece as well as minor scratches and chips on both sides. Minor staining and discolouration to the paper surfaces throughout the piece. A minor stain to the left hand side, probably from a liquid, approximately 39 cm long. Minor wear and scuffing to the edges of the piece. A minor loss to the paper to the bottom of the lower left hand proper corner as partially visible in the printed and online catalogues.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Together with Estrid Ericson and her furnishing company, Svenskt Tenn, Josef Frank developed his highly personal style with elements of Viennese elegance and Swedish functionalism. He wanted to incorporate natural forms and colours into his interiors, so that the inhabitants could breathe freely in the enclosed spaces. He believed that “ornament and complexity create peacefulness and get rid of the disturbing aspect of pure functional form.”
A perfect example of this ideology is presented Flora bureau. For this project Frank used hand-coloured botanical paper prints from Carl Lindman’s book Bilder ur Nordens Flora, which he then delicately applied onto the mahogany front of the piece. Contrast between the delicate floral patterns and heavy wooden form instils the cabinet with light, playful and organic sense. Contrasting materials bring the echo of the past, but create incredibly modern piece.