Architectural Desk in Walnut by Carlo De Carli, Italy, 1950s

Architectural Desk in walnut by Carlo De Carli.This desk has a very solid and a kind of determined look with the unmistakable charm of the Italian design of the fifties. According to tradition, this is a design by the Italian master Carlo De Carli. In addition to being an architect and designer, he was also a highly respected professor who, for example with his theoretical reflections, had a fundamental influence on an entire generation of architects.The architectural references are clearly reflected in this design. Seemingly simple shapes are more complicated than we might notice at first. Its legs are part of the side panels and vice versa. The rectangular recesses from which the legs derive their right to exist, in this case, are a strong contrast to the trapezoidal shape of the side panel. There is also a milled edge around these panels that contributes to a feeling of depth. We see a mirrored luxurious walnut veneer adding a classic feel to this design that stepped outside the conventional at that time and still holds on today. A refined combination.Two chests of drawers attached to the inside and rear panel seem to float in a certain way. The veneer edge on the front is beautifully mitred at the corners and the cabinets are fully veneered all around, and each compartment houses three drawers.The top is also essentially trapezoidal, this time reversed, corresponding to the shape of the side panels. It is pleasantly striking that it was not decided to straighten the top, but to have it slope down so that the visual language remains intact. This is also a strong example of craftsmanship. The top and the front of the drawers are respectively finished with matt black and matt white Formica.The condition of this refined desk is very good with only minimal signs of use.”