905/​319

C. F. Harsdorff, attributed (b. 1735, d. 1799, Danish arcitect)

A Danish Louis XVI mahogany writing elevation desk in the manor of architect C.F. Harsdorff, sliding red gilt tooled leather top under which elevating cartoniere with drawers and pigeon holes, one drawer enclosing an inkwell and a sandhouse of porcelain decorated with flowers in colours from the Royal Copenhagen Porcelain factory, founded in 1775. Denmark, late 18th century. H. 135 cm. L. 109 cm. W. 62 cm.

The architect Caspar Frederik Harsdorff represented the simple Neo-Classicist style which followed the Rococo. Two of the best examples of his work are his own house Kongens Nytorv 3–5 (built in 1780) and Erichsens Palace - also on Kongens Nytorv (built 1799). He was ready to put his architectural skills to the service of interior decoration and furniture design. Because of his obvious talent Harsdorff was appointed Court architect and professor. He had numerous pupils, including his friend and colleague C.F. Hansen. Many cabinet-makers were inspired by Harsdorff's stylistic direction - inspiration which is clearly apparent in this bureau.

Condition

Condition report on request.

Auction

Furniture, decorative art & carpets, 1 December 2021

Category
Estimate

15,000–20,000 DKK

Sold

Price realised

25,000 DKK