Solid Oak and Ebony Bench by Niels Holger Rasmussen. This low bench is constructed from solid oak and features distinctive ebony inlay in a repeating leaf motif along the frieze. The piece is supported by four turned, stylized legs connected by flat stretcher bases. It is attributed to Danish architect Niels Holger Rasmussen (1871-1952). The bench has a documented provenance, originating from the Grand Lodge headquarters of the Danish Order of Freemasons in Copenhagen, a building Rasmussen co-designed in 1923. The seat is currently upholstered in a modern dark fabric, replacing the original.
Specifications:
Origin: Denmark
Period: 1924
Style: Danish Art Deco / Early 20th Century
Finish: Solid Oak with Ebony Inlay
Dimensions: H: 14.17" (36 cm) | W: 39.37" (100 cm) | D: 27.55" (70 cm)
Condition: The bench is in good overall structural condition. The oak frame exhibits small scratches, chips, and wear consistent with age and institutional use. The original upholstery has been replaced.
Niels Holger Rasmussen (1871–1952) was a Danish architect active during the early 20th century. He is most notably recognized for his 1923 commission to design the Grand Lodge headquarters for the Danish Order of Freemasons, located on Blegdamsvej in Copenhagen. Rasmussen executed this major institutional project in collaboration with Vilhelm Lauritzen, who would go on to become one of Denmark's most prominent architectural figures. The custom furniture Rasmussen designed for this headquarters reflects the disciplined, neoclassical architectural language of the building, utilizing heavy, durable materials like solid oak and precise ebony inlay to suit a formal lodge setting.
