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Pair of Art Deco book-ends by Erling Olsen, Wedgwood, circa 1935

$3,800per set
£2,889.05per set
€3,334.07per set
CA$5,318.98per set
A$5,955.84per set
CHF 3,107.46per set
MX$72,567.52per set
NOK 39,431.44per set
SEK 37,488.80per set
DKK 24,886.63per set
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About the Item

A very rare pair of bookends by this much sought-after designer, Erling Olsen. He did a small amount of work for Wedgwood, including at least two designs for bookends; but this basalt example is very scarce. Erling Olsen, a prominent figure in the Art Deco movement, is celebrated for his distinctive contributions to design during the early to mid-20th century. Born in Denmark in the late 19th century, Olsen's early exposure to the arts and craftsmanship in his homeland profoundly influenced his design aesthetic. He studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, where he honed his skills in various artistic disciplines, including architecture, furniture design, and decorative arts. Olsen's work is characterized by the sleek lines, geometric forms, and luxurious materials that define the Art Deco style. He seamlessly blended functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating pieces that were both practical and visually striking. He is perhaps best known for his innovative furniture designs, utilizing exotic woods, metals, and glass, often incorporating inlays and marquetry to enhance the visual richness of his pieces. His furniture ranged from elegant seating and tables to sophisticated cabinetry. Beyond furniture, Olsen contributed to the design of buildings and interiors. He was involved in several high-profile projects where his ability to integrate Art Deco elements into architectural spaces was highly regarded. His interiors often featured custom-designed fixtures and fittings that complemented his overall design vision. Additionally, Olsen designed a variety of decorative items, including lighting fixtures, ceramics, and textiles. Each piece reflected his attention to detail and his commitment to the Art Deco ethos of combining artistry with industrial precision. Among Olsen’s notable projects were collaborations on landmark buildings and luxury hotels in Europe and North America. His work on these projects often included comprehensive design schemes that encompassed furniture, fixtures, and overall interior layout. Olsen’s designs were featured in several international exhibitions, showcasing his work to a global audience and cementing his reputation as a leading Art Deco designer. Erling Olsen’s contributions to the Art Deco movement have had a lasting impact on the field of design. His ability to merge elegance with modernity influenced subsequent generations of designers. Today, Olsen’s pieces are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of Art Deco design. His works are often seen in museums, galleries, and private collections, appreciated for their artistic value and historical significance. Olsen’s legacy remains a testament to his skill and vision, embodying the spirit of an era that celebrated innovation, elegance, and the fusion of art and industry.
  • Creator:
    Wedgwood (Manufacturer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 6.5 in (16.51 cm)Width: 5 in (12.7 cm)Depth: 5 in (12.7 cm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Style:
    Art Deco (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Stoneware,Molded
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1935
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Melbourne, AU
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 60271stDibs: LU3151340125492

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