Description & Technical information

JOSEF HOFFMANN
Brtnice 1870 – 1956 Vienna

THREE-PART SCREEN

Some wormholes in the wood, the panels and the fabric, original fabric, slightly cleaned, small retouches, excellent original condition.


design of screen and fabric: Josef Hoffmann, around 1903
fabric executed by: Josef Backhausen und Söhne, Vienna


This screen is a significant example of the reduced, clear architectural lines typically employed by Hoffmann after 1902. Josef Hoffmann used this fabric pattern, commercially known as beehive pattern, in different variations for numerous carpets. However, when applied to fabrics, it was always executed according to this design, with only the colours varying. The archives of the Backhausen company contain a great variety of carpet designs incorporating this pattern.

We would like to thank Mr. Peter Backhausen for his friendly help and for providing us with the documentation.

Date:  1903
Period:  20th century
Origin:  Vienna
Medium: Massive oak, Limed, Nickel plated fittings, Original fabric
Dimensions: 139 x 50 x 3.5 cm (54³/₄ x 19⁵/₈ x 1³/₈ inches)
Literature: ref.: Archiv Josef Backhausen und Söhne, Smyrna Dess. no. 4544 from 1902; Das Interieur, 1903, vol. IV, ill. p. 167 (fabric pattern, carpet pattern)
Categories: Decorative Arts & Design