Modernist Desk by Jindrich Halabala for UP Brno, 1930s

This writing / office desk has a rectangle table top made of Oak. The previous owner made an access point in the top left corner for hiding computer cables. The table top is supported by two cupboards. The left one has got four lockable sliding drawers and the right side has got a lockable door covering two shelves. These two parts are standing on a smaller curved base covered in brown lino.

This piece was sourced in Brno, Czech Republic and it used to belong to a family of one of Brno’s most successful developer of the 1930’s. This desk was produced by one of the leading furniture producers in Europe at the time – UP Brno Factory, where Jindrich Halabala worked as designers and Art director and its a perfect example of the high standards of their production with the stylish design and the quality of the materials with the perfect attention to every detail. There is a delightful wood pattern on all the sides, therefore the desk can be used as a free standing piece.

What is slightly unusual about this desk is the label Thonet Bubenec on the underneath the table top. The UP logo on the keys clearly indicates that this desk was produced by UP Brno factory. It is unclear why there is also a Thonet sign, but perhaps it was sold at the Thonet shop in Prague or some parts of the table were used from the Thonet factory.

This desk is in great vintage condition with only minimal wear wear and tear. Recent restoration has fully revived the extremely rich colour of the entire piece, showing off the beautiful walnut patterns on all surfaces. The entire piece has been hand finished by Shellac and Nitro varnishes in order to achieve its original gloss finish. The original damaged lino was replaced by a new one. There are some small marks and wear on the wood inside of the drawers.

This piece is truly marvellous example of the sophisticated design and high standards of furniture production in Czechoslovakia of the early 20th Century .