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Retro desk by Willy Guhl for BiA, 1950s
€3,002
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Product description
This desk was designed by the Swiss designer Willy Guhl (1915-2004) for the Büro für industrielle Architektur (BiA), Zurich, around 1945-1955. Typical of Guhl's work at this time, it combines a clear, functional design with a robust choice of materials that was designed for intensive use in schools, universities and public offices.
The frame is made of powder-coated tubular steel in dark red-brown, which is bent in a stable yet light line. The warm grain of the veneered wood table top creates a cozy contrast to the industrial frame. A green drawer box with two drawers and round wooden handles is attached to the side, adding colorful accents and underlining the practical character of the piece of furniture. The embossing "BIA" on the underside of the top confirms production by BiA Zurich.
Willy Guhl is one of the most important Swiss designers of the 20th century. While he achieved worldwide fame with his legendary Eternit designs such as the "Loop Chair", his furniture for BiA documents an early chapter in his career. They stand for the aspiration to design furniture for public spaces that is practical, durable and aesthetic at the same time. Original pieces from this series are rare today and are becoming increasingly important as contemporary witnesses of Swiss post-war modernism. For collectors and lovers of Guhl's work, this desk is a valuable, authentic piece that illustrates the development from functional school and office furniture to his iconic design classics.
Dimensions: L135 x W77 cm x H64-79-135 cm
The desk is in good vintage condition with an authentic patina. The metal frame shows minor paint flaking and traces of age, but remains stable. The wooden top shows light scratches and wear that reflect decades of use. The green lacquered drawer box is functional, with minor abrasions to the edges. Overall, a well-preserved, immediately usable contemporary witness to Swiss design history.
The desk is in good vintage condition with an authentic patina. The metal frame shows minor paint flaking and traces of age, but remains stable. The wooden top shows light scratches and wear that reflect decades of use. The green lacquered drawer box is functional, with minor abrasions to the edges. Overall, a well-preserved, immediately usable contemporary witness to Swiss design history.
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsGreen, Brown, BlackMaterialWood, MetalNumber of items1Height64 cmWidth135 cmDepth77 cm
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Zürich, SwitzerlandOn Whoppah since March 2024 • 3 sales