Amsterdam School Wooden Sofa by Piet Kramer, Netherlands - 1920s

Description

Piet Kramer (1881–1961) was a prominent figure of the Amsterdam School, a Dutch architectural movement that developed in the early twentieth century. Working alongside architects including Michel de Klerk and Johan van der Mey, he contributed to an expressive architectural language distinguished by unconventional forms, elaborate brickwork and the integration of decorative craftsmanship. His major projects included the Scheepvaarthuis in Amsterdam (1912–1916), the De Dageraad housing complex (1919–1923), designed in collaboration with De Klerk, and the De Bijenkorf department store in The Hague (1924–1926). As an architect for Amsterdam's municipal public works department, Kramer also designed numerous bridges that remain defining features of the city's urban landscape.

Kramer applied his architectural approach to furniture, treating construction and ornament as interconnected elements of design. This wooden sofa from the 1920s features a high, panelled backrest, broad enclosed armrests and a continuous wooden frame. Hinged lids reveal concealed storage compartments within the armrests, integrating a practical function into the structure. The angular black feet provide a distinctive contrast to the wood, while the green mohair upholstery introduces a soft textile element to the geometric composition.

GW4778