Antique Austro-German Icehouse by Rudolf Ondráček, Early 1900s

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Description

A domestic icebox dating back to between 1900 and 1915. Manufactured by rudolf ondráček's special workshop, operating in the territories … Read more A domestic icebox dating back to between 1900 and 1915. Manufactured by rudolf ondráček's special workshop, operating in the territories of the austro-hungarian empire, as evidenced by the original metal plates and the factory marks imprinted directly on the cabinet.
the cabinet's supporting structure is made of pine, particularly suitable for its excellent natural thermal insulation properties and inherent lightness. The exterior surface has been given a "faux oak" finish using the complex traditional graining technique. This high-quality craftsmanship allowed the wood's grain and pith rays to be masterfully recreated on a softwood base, perfectly integrating this functional appliance into the elegant kitchens of the early 20th century. The small, natural signs of exfoliation on the surface film, accumulated over the decades, testify to the originality of the period oil varnishes and resins, highlighting the absence of aggressive modern restorations.

the interior space management is a true tribute to the engineering of yesteryear. The upper section is accessible through two separate, carefully designed openings: the right-hand lid, securely hinged, opens onto the spacious main compartment designed for storing large blocks of ice. The left-hand lid, completely removable, provides access to a second, narrower compartment lined with corrugated zinc to maximize heat exchange. This compartment houses the original removable metal basket with handles and oval slots, designed as a vertical storage area for crushed ice, optimizing the uniform distribution of cold air. Finally, the large front door reveals the lower food compartment, structured with a thick internal rabbet to ensure perfect thermal insulation. The entire interior is lined with its original zinc sheets, in excellent condition. The plumbing and heating system is completed at the bottom by a molded solid metal circular vent with its original through-duct for controlled drainage of meltwater, supported at the top by a finely perforated grille vent, designed for internal micro-ventilation and odor prevention.

the front features the "prima qualität" (multiple award-winning) elite line plaque, enhanced by the coat of arms of honor won at major european industrial exhibitions, most notably the vienna international exhibition of 1880. Inside is the second original plaque, stamped in burnished metal, bearing the inscription "rudolf ondráček - eisschränke-erzeugung," which marks the manufacturer. The original factory ink stamp, presumably bearing the model's catalog code or production serial number, is still visible on the raw structural wood.
the icebox is in excellent condition, with normal signs of age. Our work was limited to cleaning and polishing for preservation purposes. The hardware, hinges, keys, and period locking systems are completely complete, intact, and in perfect working order.
dimensions: cabinet w57 x d46 x h83.5 cm
auxiliary basket 35.5 x 17 x 17 cm
upper compartment lid 31.5 x 39 cm
upper container 27.5 x 31 x 17 cm
front compartment door 30 x 39 cm
front compartment 31 x 31 x h37 cm
shelf in compartment 20 cm from the base 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