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The rosewood desk model ND93/3 by Nanna Ditzel stands as one of the most refined expressions of mid-century Danish modern design.
Created in the mid-1950s in collaboration with her husband Jørgen Ditzel, this desk embodies a philosophy of functional elegance and sculptural restraint that continues to resonate with collectors and design enthusiasts today. Designed around 1955 and produced by the respected Danish cabinetmaker Søren Willadsen, the ND93 series was conceived during a golden era of Scandinavian design. At this time, Denmark was producing furniture that combined traditional craftsmanship with modernist simplicity.
What elevates the ND93/3 from a simple writing desk to a design icon is its masterful use of rosewood. Known for its deep, rich tones and dramatic grain patterns, rosewood was a prized material in mid-century furniture. In this desk, the wood is not merely structural but expressive. The grain often runs continuously across the drawer fronts, creating a seamless visual flow that highlights the natural beauty of the material. This attention to detail reflects the Danish modern ethos: allowing materials to speak for themselves. Equally notable are the desk’s sculptural drawer pulls. Rather than applying external handles, Ditzel integrated them directly into the drawer fronts through subtle carvings. This approach maintains the desk’s clean lines while adding a tactile, handcrafted quality. It’s a small but significant detail that demonstrates the designer’s sensitivity to both form and function.
The ND93/3 was originally produced in several wood types, including teak and oak, but the rosewood version remains the most sought-after today. Its luxurious appearance and rarity have made it a favourite among collectors of vintage Scandinavian furniture. Production of the desk ceased in the 1960s, further enhancing its desirability in the modern market. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, the desk reflects Nanna Ditzel’s broader contribution to design. Often referred to as one of Denmark’s most versatile designers, she worked across furniture, textiles, and jewellery, consistently pushing the boundaries of form and material. The ND93/3 exemplifies her ability to merge practicality with artistic expression, creating objects that are both useful and enduringly beautiful.
In a world increasingly dominated by mass production, the ND93/3 rosewood desk serves as a reminder of the value of thoughtful design and skilled craftsmanship. It is more than a functional object; it is a piece of design history, capturing a moment when simplicity, quality, and beauty were perfectly aligned.
Works Sold at Adam’s Now in the Irish National Collection
A great opportunity to purchase both established and lesser-known artist’s work at an accessible price point, the Online Picture Auction is the first of many sales to be hosted at Adam’s in 2026. It is perfect for those looking to start a collection and the discerning collector alike.
Through this article, let our expert Adam Pearson guiding you to the (re)discovery of the once established Irish painter Richard O’Neill.
Buying at Auction and the Role of Antiques in a Modern Home
Important Irish Art Auction Highlights
Oliver Dowling Collection by Aidan Dunne
2024 is a year in which Adam’s wants to recognise the key role buying antique furniture and furnishings at auction contributes greatly to the sustainable initiative. In 2019 the Environmental Protection Agency reported stark figures that each year in Ireland 1.2 million reusable bulky items, primarily furniture goes into landfill. Similar to the problem of ‘fast fashion’, the constant production and consumption of new items is leading to rapidly growing waste problem. We want to acknowledge those who are already buying second hand or antique furniture at auction and to encourage new buyers by highlighting the benefits of acquiring affordable, well-made quality items that are built to last.
Irish author, recipe creator and lifestyle influencer, Indy Parsons, selects her favourite pieces from our upcoming Fine Jewellery & Watches auction
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Cork-born Irish actress, Sarah Greene, selects her favourite pieces from our upcoming Fine Jewellery & Watches auction
Yvonne Aupicq had met Orpen, we understand, while working as a nurse during the war. He had been admitted to hospital with a suspected case of scabies which ended up being a far more serious case of blood poisoning as he recounts in his wartime memoir ‘An Onlooker in France’. Their relationship continued after 1918 when Orpen was appointed as the official artist to The Paris Peace Conference. They relocated to capital and over the following decade he painted her numerous times, often nude as in Amiens 1914, or The Rape and Nude Girl Reading (1921). Working with her as his model during these early years after the war allowed Orpen an opportunity to re-fuel his creativity.
Editor-in-Chief of IMAGE Publications, Lizzie Gore-Grimes, selects her favourite pieces from our upcoming Fine Jewellery & Watches auction
Our upcoming Fine Jewellery & Watches auction on September 13th features a prime example of Van Cleef & Arpel's renowned 'Mystery Setting'
Our June auction offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire one of the great masterpieces of Irish art and icons of Dublin’s history.
Georgia Chiesa selects some of her favourite lots in the upcoming Vintage Wine & Spirits Auction
"Beating the bounds is a tradition that can be traced back to the medieval period. At this time, land was divided into parishes and the clergy and church wardens held the responsibility for its upkeep and management. It was up to the Church to ensure that its parishioners knew the local boundary lines and, before maps became commonplace, this had to be kept as a mental record."
Adam’s in conjunction with Suzanne MacDougald are proud to host an online timed auction of artworks to aid the Irish Red Cross’s humanitarian work in delivering vital services to millions of people impacted by the conflict in Ukraine. With no buyers premium 100% of the hammer price will go directly to the Irish Red Cross.
Ros Drinkwater writes of Jack B Yeats' 'The Boat' in the Business Post:
With a consolidated result of €320,000,the At Home sale in Stephan’s Green, was a great success.
James Adam & Sons Ltd, Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers, 26 St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2,
D02 X665, Ireland
