Birch and Oak Carved Desk by Pavel Novak, Czechoslovakia 1980s
Birch and Oak Carved Desk by Pavel Novak, Czechoslovakia 1980s
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Generally, Czech mid-century modern designs tend to be more sober than their French, German, American, and even Scandinavian counterparts. However, works by Pavel Novak are an exception - as evidenced by this large desk. While his genius is evident in his work, the Czech designer’s repertoire is finally starting to surface, and as this piece shows, we are lucky to witness it.
Novak often worked with a gouge, that originally never had any other vocation than to furnish his farm. Part of this table is made of hand gouged oak, which is in itself a time-consuming and rare woodcarving technique. While most woodworkers offer help with fixing gouges in wood, Novak used the technique to create this rustic looking body that can be considered to be a functional sculpture. Thanks to the unique, hand-carved texture, the table is one of a kind, with an inimitable pattern .
This solid wood table, with its natural finish, exemplifies the enduring charm and warmth that mid-century design continues to bring to contemporary interiors, underscoring the timeless appeal of this iconic design era.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The desk has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
88.98 in W x 26.78 in D x 39.97 in H
226 cm W x 68 cm D x 101.5 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
A drafting table or architect's table is, in its antique form, a kind of multipurpose desk which can be used for any kind of drawing, writing or impromptu sketching or for drafting technical illustrations. Many designs from the mid-century period adopted an almost structural logic, reflecting a broader interest in honest materials and visible craftsmanship, where the making of the object was never concealed but instead highlighted as an integral part of the design.
This worktop desk was made in France around the 1960s. It embodies rustic modernism and brutalist aesthetics through the robust yet carefully considered construction. The solid oak top is thick and slightly contoured, with softened edges that introduce a subtle organic quality to an otherwise rectilinear form, and an ergonomic cutout. Beneath, the base is composed of vertical supports connected by horizontal stretchers, creating a grounded structure. The architectural portico base is connected by solid crossbeams, where the joinery is clearly expressed, each connection contributing to both the strength and the visual identity of the piece. This detail is a testament to the high level of craftsmanship and brutalist influences. At the same time, the open space between these elements ensures that the design does not feel heavy, despite the mass of the material. The natural grain of the oak remains visible across all surfaces, adding depth to the otherwise restrained composition.
This desk maintains a strong presence rooted in its quality, but most of all, it represents a deeply functional piece of furniture. It balance of weight and refinement makes it perfect to serve a practical but elegant workspace.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The desk has recently been reconditioned and showcases a beautiful grain pattern. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item has minor marks and scratches, and may show slight discolouration.
Dimensions:
49.40 in W × 32.67 in D × 30.31 in H
125.5 cm W x 83 cm D x 77 cm H