Restored 'Station Wagon' Highboy Dresser by Paul Frankl, c. 1945, Triple Signed

This rare collectors highboy dresser is by Paul T. Frankl for Johnson Furniture, circa 1945, from the 'Station Wagon' series of bedroom furniture. Beautifully contrasting Mahogany and Maple refinished with an expensive French Polish. Fully signed example making this perfect for collectors; with Johnson Furniture Co stamp on inside drawer along with John Stuart retailer medallion, and model and production codes stamped on rear plus Johnson Furniture paper label (see photos).

*Note, we have the matching wide dresser available in another listing, contact us if you wish to purchase the combined set.

This design is important in context to Mid-Century Modern and California Ranch House history. In 1950 House Beautiful magazine promoted the Frankl Station Wagon collection within their 'The Station Wagon Way of Life' feature as a concept of American Modernity bolstered by the American Station Wagon and American Ranch House style, using a photo of a Cliff May (prominent Mid-Century Ranch Style architect) bedroom interior as the opening image to this feature (see photos for this image).

The Johnson Furniture Co. brochure for the Station Wagon Group states: ‘Paul Frankl has designed the Station Wagon Group for zestful living in town or country. It is furniture for the young in heart, for the American tempo of gay, cheerful, convenient living.’ The group is described as ‘solid comfort’ with the ‘casual smartness of the Station Wagon design’.

Primed for collectors, this gentlemen's chest of drawers is fully signed throughout - the interior drawer with stamp and John Stuart Inc medallion, production and model numbering stamped on the rear side of the cabinet along with Johnson Handley Johnson paper label. The contrasting Mahogany and Maple cabinetry was refinished with a French Polish, the most laborious and expensive finish but worth every bit of effort and cost, as it now has a resilient and striking glass-like finish. The thick French Polish protects the wood from regular daily use and increases the intensity and vividness of the wood grain.

A rare, sought-after and important piece for the most discriminating of interior designers, collectors, connoisseurs and art / design investors. Also very designer on-trend with California Modern and Ranch House styles soaring in popularity and demand.

Consider using this Paul T Frankl for Johnson Furniture 'Station Wagon' highboy dresser as either bedroom furniture or in a dining room as a sideboard cabinet, or in an office or living room as a credenza. Perfect for a Mid-Century Modern, Space Age Mod, Scandanavian Modern or Danish Modern home or penthouse apartment but could also look fantastic in a Post-Modern, Contemporary or Zen / Minimalism room. Also consider mixing it up in a Traditional, Transitional, Hollywood Regency, Classical or Art Deco room with a splash of juxtaposition. Would also be an apt choice in a commercial project such as a hotel lobby lounge or members club, creative design studio or high-rise executive office.

MEASUREMENTS:

H 45.25" x W 42.5" x D 21.25"

CONDITION:

Excellent restored condition. The exterior was refinished with a French Polish. Subtle age and prior wear is still evidenced under the new polish. Brass hardware was polished and with new leather. Very attractive collectors example of the original 'Station Wagon' designed by Paul Frank for Johnson Furniture.