Two-Seat Bench

• Design: Wilhelm Schmidt (1880–[after]1928)
• Execution: Prag-Rudniker Korbwaren-Fabrikation
• c. 1906
• Wood, white varnished and painted
• Leopold Museum, Vienna

This bench was designed by Wilhelm Schmidt around 1906 when he was the head designer of the Prague-Rudnik Wickerwork Manufactory. Although not a member of the Vienna Workshop, Schmidt shows close stylistic affinities as a former pupil of Josef Hoffmann. The bench is made of white varnished wood, and squares and simple flower patterns ease the austerity of the design and make the bench look more inviting and friendly.