Josef Frank Flora bureau

This very rare Flora bureau, model 1050, was designed by Josef Frank and produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden during the 1940s. The piece is an exceptional example of Frank’s unique approach to design, where he combined natural elements with functional furniture. Constructed from mahogany, the bureau features brass hardware and is decorated with hand-colored paper that showcases a botanical motif, including plants, flowers, and insects. This decorative technique is emblematic of Frank’s ability to blend artistry with practicality, resulting in a visually striking and functional piece of furniture.

The structure of the Flora bureau is rectangular, with clean, simple lines that highlight its elegant proportions. It is designed with three large drawers that offer ample storage space. The drawers are fitted with curved brass handles that create a subtle contrast with the intricate botanical illustrations on the surfaces. The bureau is supported by four rounded mahogany feet, which introduce an organic, softer element to the overall design, enhancing its natural aesthetic. The hand-colored botanical prints applied to the front and sides contribute to the piece’s distinctiveness, emphasizing Frank’s deep connection to nature and its influence on his work.

Josef Frank, an Austrian-Swedish architect and designer, was a pivotal figure in modern Swedish design. His collaboration with Svenskt Tenn, a design company founded in 1924, produced some of the most iconic pieces of mid-century Swedish furniture. Frank’s work often incorporated vibrant patterns and organic forms, reflecting his rejection of strict functionalism. Instead, he favored a more eclectic, welcoming aesthetic that sought to create spaces that felt warm, lived-in, and harmonious. His designs, particularly those featuring botanical themes, were groundbreaking for their time.

This Flora bureau remains in good vintage condition, with some wear on the applied paper surfaces, consistent with age and use. The structural integrity of the piece is well-preserved, and the original materials, including the mahogany and brass hardware, have retained their quality. The combination of Frank’s masterful craftsmanship and the intricate botanical decoration makes this bureau a standout example of mid-century Scandinavian design, blending art with functionality in a way that remains highly influential today.

The dimensions of the bureau are 132.5 cm in width, 43.5 cm in depth, and 76 cm in height (52.2 x 17.1 x 29.9 inches).