Arne Jacobsen

Private collection, Copenhagen, circa 1953
Thence by descent

Domus, no. 282, May, 1953, p. 40
Carsten Thau and Kjeld Vindum, Arne Jacobsen, Copenhagen, 2001, p. 388 
Charlotte and Peter Fiell, eds, Domus: III 1950-1954, Cologne, 2006, p. 384
Arne Karlsen, Danish Furniture Design in the 20th Century, volume 2, Copenhagen, 2007, p. 129

Overall very good condition consistent with age and use. Scattered scuffs and minor losses to the painted pedestal, concentrated to the top edge of the top drawer and inside panel. The original leather on the desk surface and typewriter tray with wear and fading throughout, consistent with a desk that was used regularly for over the last 50 years. There is a stain to the top left corner which left an irregular line approximately 25 x 35 cm in diameter. There are two circular marks where one could assume vases used to be placed, each approximately 10 cm in diameter. One deeper dent in the leather surface near the bottom right corner, approximately 2 cm in diameter. The steel frame with very minor oxidation throughout. None of the above detract from the rarity and importance of this desk, and no restoration was undertaken as the issues noted only add to the historical story this piece has to tell.Typewriter tray dimensions: 64.5 x 34 x 40 cm (25 3/8 x 13 3/8 x 15 3/4 in.)
"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."

Designed the same year as his iconic ‘Ant’ chair, the present model, along with a low table and armchair, were executed for the offices of the American-Scandinavian Foundation in New York.  Although intended for American export, the present lot remained in Denmark from the time of its execution.

The original owner of the present lot was close friends with Arne Jacobsen, and at the time of acquiring the desk circa 1953, resided in a home which was designed by Jacobsen in 1928, located in Hellerup, a few miles north of Copenhagen, close to the architect's personal home. In addition to his relationship with Arne Jacobsen, the owner enjoyed a circle of friends and acquaintances including illustrious designers, writers and philosophers Finn Juhl, Hans J. Wegner, Borge Møgensen, Karen Blixen and Jean Paul Sartre.