Mid-Century Knoll 541 Credenza
A vintage Knoll 541 credenza in white lacquer and walnut from Snowdrift Antiques.
Florence Knoll (1917-2019) was an American architect, interior designer, furniture designer, and entrepreneur who has been credited with revolutionizing furniture design and bringing modernist design to interiors.
After working as an architect, she moonlighted as a designer for the Hans G. Knoll Furniture Company, which included designing their showroom. In 1943, she joined the Hans Knoll's company and founded their interior design service, the Knoll Planning Unit. She and Hans Knoll were married in 1946, when she became a full business partner and the company became known Knoll Associates, Inc. This pairing led to success as Florence Knoll helped Hans Knoll turn what was a small furniture company into an international powerhouse. Knoll is still in business today.
This gorgeous piece is the Florence Knoll designed 541 Credenza in walnut and off-white lacquer. It is probably from the late 1950s to early 1960s. Four off-white lacquered doors conceal three divided compartments. On the far left side are two divided drawers with open storage underneath. The right half of the left side has two adjustable or removable shelves. The right side consists of storage space with one long adjustable or removable shelf. The handles are small and subtle chrome pulls with magnetic closures. The innovative door mechanisms are stainless steel. The frame and legs are walnut. The legs are squared with stretcher bars around the base of the frame. The Knoll label was removed at some point.
This piece is in excellent vintage condition. It does have some age appropriate wear but nothing serious. There is some minor wear to the right side panel on the back edge. Two of the lacquered doors have the light crazing typically seen on these pieces. It is not very noticeable and subtle enough to make it difficult to photograph. The top is in excellent condition and has no water rings or dark lamp spots.
This credenza measures 75” long by 18 deep and stands 29 ½ high.
It can be admired and purchased at ...
The Antique Exchange
1500 South Broadway
Denver, CO
Questions about or to purchase contact me at...
