Alvar Aalto

(Finnish, 1898–1976)

Drop-front Desk, model 802, c. 1950
for Artek, Finland

stamped to back of upper portion 'Aalto Destin made in Sweden'

birch, laminated beech, brass

41¾ h × 36½ w × 19 d in.

This lot is located in Chicago.

literature: Baldwin Kingrey Midcentury Modern in Chicago 1947-1957, Brunetti, pg. 49

In overall good and ready to place condition. There are no breaks, losses, repairs or damage to the wood body of the desk. Two keys are included in this lot, both functioning. The upper portion of the desk separate from the base. All interior and exterior drawers open smoothly. Some light edge wear and scratching throughout does not detract from the overall appearance. Please see or request additional condition images.

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Roger Ward

Vice President, Head of Department, Design

[email protected]312.447.3280

Ward brings over 20 years of deep and wide-ranging design experience to this role. Before joining Freeman’s, he worked in the Design department of a prominent New York-based auction house focused on in 20th-century furniture and design with a particular interest in European furniture from the second half of the 20th century. He also co-owned and operated Full Circle Modern, a successful vintage design store in Brooklyn specializing in furniture from the 1960s through the 1980s.

Mr. Ward also has a broad background in real estate, as an appraiser, broker, rehabber, and investor.

"I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to enter an already robust Design program with Freeman’s. In the coming years, I look forward to expanding this legacy by continuing to feature Design auctions in Chicago and Philadelphia. We will be looking to curate future auctions based on our existing strengths in 20th-century design by building our presence in the contemporary Design space and strengthening the offerings that explore the connections of Fine Art and Design by introducing present-day artists to the market," commented Roger Ward.

Modern and Early 20th Century Design

Alvar Aalto (Finnish, 1898–1976)

Drop-front Desk, model 802, c. 1950
for Artek, Finland

Modern and Early 20th Century Design

Alvar Aalto (Finnish, 1898–1976)

Drop-front Desk, model 802, c. 1950 for Artek, Finland

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Drop-front Desk, model 802, c. 1950
for Artek, Finland