Suite of furniture 1917 - 1918

This suite of furniture was designed by Michel de Klerk, a prominent figure in the Amsterdam School movement. Made in the early 20th century in the Netherlands, this furniture embodies the movement's emphasis on decorative, expressive forms, and the integration of art into everyday life. The Amsterdam School arose during a period of significant social and political change, with a growing socialist movement. The style can be seen as a reaction against the austerity of earlier design movements, seeking to create uplifting environments for the working class. De Klerk was commissioned by the social democratic housing associations to design housing for workers. The carved details and sculptural forms are integrated into the overall design, reflecting the movement’s utopian ideals and belief in the transformative power of art. Examining the social context and design philosophy of the Amsterdam School allows us to understand how this furniture reflects the cultural and political aspirations of its time. To learn more, explore archives related to the Amsterdam School and its key figures.