Ernest Igl for Wilhelm Werndl 'Directors' Writing Desk in White Polyurethane

Ernest Igl for Wilhelm Werndl, 'Directors' writing desk, polyurethane, Germany, 1970/71

Ernest Hofmann, also known by his artist name 'Igl', recently gained an international audience for his design work. An orange-colored version of a similar model furnished the MIB headquarters in the movie Men in Black 3 (2012). In 2009, the US company Steelcase re-edited Hofmann's desk, the 'Igl-Jet', producing a limited edition of 1,970 pieces. When the desk was first made in 1970-71, Hofmann employed groundbreaking technology for his designs. His initial desk was one of the first to be made entirely out of plastic. The revolutionary concept and grand vision behind this desk are evident in its rounded corners, soft edges, and stunning shapes. Hofmann incorporated two compartments of drawers on a curved base, with a lockable writing surface that opens to reveal a large storage compartment. This sophisticated storage facility, along with details such as geometrically shaped drawers and rounded contours truly contribute to the unique design idea.

In 1969, a successful collaboration between German office furniture maker Werndl and Ernest Hofmann began. With the desks 'Igl-Top' and 'Igl-Jet', as well as a shelf, Hofmann secured an important role in office furniture design during 1970-1971. His designs were groundbreaking and only possible due to the use of a new material. Hofmann designed the first one-piece desk made entirely out of polyurethane. The material was liquid and poured into a mold, where two components reacted together to form a flat, hard surface. By using plastic, Hofmann was able to create a desk with unusual organic shapes and rounded corners.

Ernest Hofmann (1920-2001) – in 1954, he gave himself the artist name ‘Igl’ – was a multi talent. He, a designer, sculptor, illustrator, and inventor, designed everything from a harvester machine to office appliances, a microscope, and rubber boots. His oeuvre includes an impressive number of products used for all kinds of situations in life. Hofmann, born in Prague in 1920, studied graphic arts in his hometown, in Karlsbad and in Munich, where he and his wife settled. Hofmann firstly worked as an illustrator, graphic artist, and cartoonist for well-known schoolbook publishers. In 1962, they moved to Rosenheim, which marked the beginning of Hofmann’s more design orientated career.

Please note that the desk has undergone a complete restoration. The surface has been refinished with a new white lacquer. Meticulous care was taken to preserve the original design, ensuring that this piece remains durable and timeless for years to come.

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