Original Art Nouveau desk (Vienna, c. 1908), execution: Unknown Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna, c. 1908)

This freestanding gentleman's desk from around 1908 can be attributed to Mauritius (Moritz) Herrgesell, who studied at the Vienna School of Arts and Crafts under Prof. Josef Hoffmann from 1901 to 1905 and was also influenced by Koloman Moser, Hoffmann's close colleague and co-founder of the Wiener Werkstätte. The piece is made of softwood veneered with mahogany, with marquetry of maple and ebony. This combination of materials corresponds to the high-quality furnishings characteristic of Viennese cabinetmaking around 1900. The design follows a clear, architectural order, referencing Hoffmann's teachings, while the subtle and fine ornamentation reveals Moser's influence. Noteworthy is the equally elaborate back, which allows the desk to be placed freely in the room and underlines its role as a space-defining element. The desk exemplifies the combination of functionality, craftsmanship, and design discipline that characterizes Viennese arts and crafts at the height of Art Nouveau. In its quality and execution, the piece is typical of works from the Wiener Werkstätte environment. Galerie Traudes Kinder / Vienna Shipping international - just ask!