In the realm of design, the Möbelmuseum in Vienna is set to unveil a captivating exhibition titled "Made in Austria: Möbeldesign 1948–1960", shedding light on the vibrant Austrian design scene of the post-war era. This period, marked by a blend of tradition and a thirst for innovation, witnessed the emergence of a unique design culture that continues to influence contemporary aesthetics.
The exhibition, curated by Eva B. Ottillinger, the deputy director of Historical Collections at the Ministry of Economics, showcases approximately 130 objects that embody the creative diversity of the 1950s. It is a time when, despite the shadows of war, hunger, and hardship, a collective spirit of optimism and creativity prevailed, leading to the birth of modern Austrian design.
One of the standout designers of this period is Oswald Haerdtl, whose work is a testament to the forward-thinking nature of Austrian design. Haerdtl's creation of the first designer espresso at Kohlmarkt set new standards for interior design, and some of his furniture pieces are on display in the exhibition. This period also saw the rise of Italian espresso culture in Vienna, which, while competing with the traditional coffeehouse culture, brought a new sense of entertainment and joy to the city.
The exhibition also highlights the male-dominated nature of furniture design in the 1950s, with architects like Anna-Lülja Praun and Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky being notable exceptions. Their works, along with those of other female designers, are given a much-deserved spotlight, revealing the underrepresentation of women in the field of serial furniture design during this time.
The exhibition showcases a range of furniture pieces, including the iconic "Austro Sessel" by Wiesner-Hager and the "Vienna Sessel" by E. & A. Pollak, as well as Roland Rainer's "Stadthallen-Sessel", a stackable wooden chair that has become a symbol of Austrian design. These pieces, along with others, demonstrate the diverse and innovative nature of Austrian furniture design in the mid-20th century.
Ottillinger emphasizes the importance of this exhibition in reflecting the present and offering a deeper understanding of the past. She notes the parallels between the post-war era and the current time, where crises, fears, and uncertainties still exist, but the spirit of collaboration and innovation remains a guiding light. The exhibition, which opens on Tuesday evening and runs until December 8, serves as a reminder of the resilience and creativity that can emerge from challenging times.
