Art Nouveau Bookcase by Julius & Josef Herrmann

Details

Description

Object: bookcase (part of a study for architect maximilian rossipaul)
design & execution: julius & josef herrmann (vienna, 1911)
dimensions … Read more Object: bookcase (part of a study for architect maximilian rossipaul)
design & execution: julius & josef herrmann (vienna, 1911)
dimensions in cm (h x w x d): 176 × 160 × 40
material: softwood, mahogany veneer, cut glass, brass
condition: professionally restored
provenance: architect maximilian rossipaul (1040 vienna)

additional information:

this bookcase was created in 1911 as part of a comprehensively designed study for the architect maximilian rossipaul. A surviving copy of the original invoice clearly documents that the piece was made by the viennese cabinetmaking firm of julius and josef herrmann, one of the most important workshops in the viennese modernist movement around 1900. The key belonging to the piece is also marked, further underscoring the complete authenticity of the ensemble.

from rossipaul's originally unified study, our collection includes not only the bookcase but also the matching desk, desk chair, and two club armchairs, offering a rare glimpse into a virtually complete interior from this period.

the design concept of the piece exemplifies the developments that took place in the circle of professor josef hoffmann and the wiener werkstätte at the beginning of the 20th century. Characteristic of this style is the combination of functional requirements, clear formal discipline, and the highest level of craftsmanship, with a conscious emphasis on the material and construction.

the cabinetmaking firm of julius and josef herrmann played a central role in this context. As one of the leading viennese workshops of its time, it played a key role in realizing numerous designs by important architects and designers. Its clients included otto prutscher and carl witzmann, both students of josef hoffmann, with whom it maintained a close working relationship, particularly after 1908. As early as 1900, the company distinguished itself through its active participation in exhibitions: it was represented at the 1900/01 winter exhibition with a bedroom designed by s. Tropsch, and in 1901/02 with a tea room designed by otto prutscher; a dining room design presented as part of a competition organized by arthur von scala was subsequently sold to london (see archive om, no. 132/1902). The workshop's continued participation in exhibitions at the austrian museum of art and industry until around 1930 demonstrates its enduring recognition.

the bookcase is thus part of a significant, largely intact ensemble and represents a high-quality example of the close collaboration between architects and specialized cabinetmakers in vienna around 1910.

the photographic representation was created digitally for logistical reasons. This piece has an attribution mark,
i am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less