Birch Writing Table from the Estate of Swedish Architect Alfred Grenander

A writing table or sofa table in birch with mahogany bandings and ebonized columns resting on base terminating in carved "s" shaped feet on casters. Offers two functional drawers on one side and two faux-front drawers on the other, with drop leaves that can be raised to enlarge the work area. This handsome Biederemeier (Karl Johan) table is from the estate of renowned Swedish Architect Alfred Grenander and is from Villa Tångvallen, in Falsterbo Sweden (photographed). Sweden, circa 1815.

Alfred Grenander, who was trained in Berlin and was influenced by German Jugendstil and the later Bauhaus movements, as can be seen in his summer home, designed and built by him in Falsterbo, Sweden, in 1906. Most of the purchased furnishings in that home were Jugendstil in style. Architect Grenander's summer desk resided in Villa Tångvallen, in Falsterbo from 1906 until this year when the estate was sold by his living descendents . Alfred Grenander is best known for his work on the Berlin Uban. Between 1902 and 1930 he constructed numerous U-Bahn stations, many of which have landmark status today.

The salon table/desk was photographed in Villa Tångvallen in a beautiful, airy room on the second floor looking out on the garden from a dormer window. There are signs of wear on the lower legs where the desk's occupant would have rested his feet over the years. This is a table that saw much use, and emanates a special energy. The worn areas are mostly visible on the side where the access to the drawers are. The black columns have been minimally restored to retain the patina of age. This is a wonderful table, whose provenance is rich in history!

Circa: 1815

Period: 1810-1819

Origin: Sweden

Style: Neoclassical

Dimensions: 38" - 57.5" wide x 29" deep x 30" high.

Materials and Techniques: Polished Birch

Condition: Good

Wear: Wear consistent with age and use.