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Bronze 4-Drawer Large Desk by Jack Cartwright for Founders
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Restored Chestnut
Bronze 4-Drawer Large Desk by Jack Cartwright for Founders
$7,800
£5,963.57
€6,832.70
CA$11,001.95
A$11,978.32
CHF 6,396.04
MX$144,597.12
NOK 80,409.70
SEK 74,790.38
DKK 51,036.94
About the Item
Made in the United States towards the late 1960s, this desk was designed by Jack Cartwright and manufactured by Founders in very low numbers, probably due to the quality required during its production. The wood was carefully chosen for its excellent grain pattern and consistency in its texture throughout the piece. Bookmatched on the top, the work surface is topped by half-inch glass and spans 12 square feet of space. Four large drawers with solid bronze pulls adorn the front of the desk, rimmed with more finely textured chestnut trim. This is set on two independent stretcher bases of finely welded steel plated in bronze then brushed for texture. Overall, this desk offers a great balance between handsome proportions, material choice and quality, and practicality with its glass top.
This example has undergone a refinish on the top and sides. This involves hand-sanding to remove the old finish, then application of new finish followed by multiple coats of clear lacquer to improve clarity into the grain and durability. The base has been cleaned.
- Creator:Founders Furniture Company (Manufacturer),Jack Cartwright (Designer)
- Dimensions:Height: 30.25 in (76.84 cm)Width: 72 in (182.88 cm)Depth: 24 in (60.96 cm)
- Style:Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Late 1960s
- Condition:Refinished.
- Seller Location:Philadelphia, PA
- Reference Number:Seller: JYA1stDibs: LU1273238662072
Founders Furniture Company
Founders Furniture Company was a short-lived 20th-century American brand that produced enduring mid-century modern designs. The company's streamlined dressers, lounge chairs and coffee tables feature solid wood construction and simple but elegant designs.
The history of Founders Furniture Company began in 1946 when it was established as a subsidiary of Knoll Inc., an esteemed manufacturer known mainly at the time for its pioneering workplace furniture — largely owing to the work of visionary designer Florence Knoll — so it launched Founders as its residential division.
During its years of operation, Founders hired celebrated American modernist designers like Milo Baughman and David Parmelee, who created sleek commodes and sideboards in mahogany and rosewood for the brand. Michigan native Jack Cartwright, a designer at Heritage during the 1950s, also worked at Founders as head designer before moving on to start his eponymous furniture company in 1963.
Founders continued operations until 1965 when Thomasville Furniture acquired it. Established in 1904 in North Carolina — home to other iconic mid-century brands such as Drexel and Broyhill — Thomasville expanded significantly during the 1960s and purchased several other American furniture manufacturers.
Today, the timeless styles and exceptional craftsmanship associated with Founders Furniture Company pieces continue to render them desirable even for today’s interiors.
On 1stDibs, find vintage Founders case pieces, seating, tables and more.
About the Seller
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