Pair of "Model 1514" Chairs by Fritz Hansen, Denmark 1940s (sold)


























Pair of "Model 1514" Chairs by Fritz Hansen, Denmark 1940s (sold)
Pair of Model 1514 chairs designed by the eponymous manufactory Fritz Hansen in the 1940s. This pair of lounge chairs feature stained beech legs. The back legs are slightly bent, which is a unique characteristic of Fritz Hansen’s designs. The seats and backrests are upholstered in a beautiful navy-blue fabric. The back of the chair is gently curved, accommodating the sitter. The slightly bulged seat offers great comfort, while visually complementing the backrest’s shape. These Model 1514 chairs illustrate the essence of an open and welcoming chair, that suits any interior. This set is comfortable and sculptural at the very same time, a great example of Fritz Hansen’s quality works.
About the designer:
Fritz Hansen’s history goes back to 1872. That year, the cabinet maker opened his workshop in Copenhagen under his name. Along with his son, Christian, Fitz Hansen started the production of high-quality furniture in 1885. The Fritz Hansen manufactory (a.k.a. Republic of Fritz Hansen) earned recognition and reputation for furnishing prestigious institutions such as the Copenhagen City Hall, the University Library and the Danish Supreme Court.
In the beginning of the 20th century, the manufactory started experimenting with a technique called ‘steam bending’, which ultimately led Fritz Hansen to become the world leader in the field in the 1930s. What started in 1915 with a steam bent beech chair, eventually made the company the specialist of laminate wood.
Thanks to Fritz Hansen’s collaborations with designers like Kaare Klint, the company played an important part in the development of what is today known as ‘Scandinavian design’. Post-war collaborations included Hans Wegner, Borge Mogensen and Arne Jacobsen. Jacobsen dominated the company’s designs in the 1950s, and among other world-famous designs, led to the creation of the ‘Egg chair” (1958). The company will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2022.~H.
Condition:
In good vintage condition, the legs have some small scratches and marks. The seat and back have been recently reupholstered in a premium fabric.
Dimensions:
23.63 in W. x 23.23 in D x 27.56 in H
60 cm W x 59 cm D x 70 cm H
Literature:
Fritz Hansen Catalogue 4202
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognised term around the world, standing for the style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these armchairs show, furniture created in this period is characterised by clarity of design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
Danish and Scandinavian modern's timeless appeal has made it a go-to for designers and homeowners alike, as furniture in this style can be understated but still stand out in almost any space. This is true for this pair of armchairs as well. Adopting the trend of abandoning ornamentation to benefit the form, the designer of this pair maintained the beauty and warmth inherent to traditional Danish cabinetmaking. From as early as the 1920s, cabinetmakers and architects frequently collaborated to produce exceptional pieces like these chairs. The backs have a welcoming, enveloping shape that embraces the sitter. The fully upholstered bodies are covered in textural, soft fabric that enhances the curves and contrasts nicely with the stained wood legs. The legs are straight and square in the front and slightly bent and splayed in the back to provide structural stability. Unlike models from outside Scandinavia, Danish designers’ products weren’t flashy but made to be last generations while remaining timeless addition to a space, while completing a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this pair of armchairs exemplify, blending high functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with simple lines, elegance and excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of Danish Modernism.
The design of this pair promotes relaxation and contentment, inviting one to sit back and enjoy a moment of peace. The understated elegance and warm tones create an alluring atmosphere, making them perfect for the purpose of evoking a hyggelig (cosy) environment in any home.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Minor marks and scratches on the legs. The chairs have recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
37.79 in W x 41.53 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Seat depth 22.24 in; Arm height 21.45 in
96 cm W x 105.5 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Seat depth 56.5 cm; Arm height 54.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Less famous than their Western European contemporaries, Czechoslovakian prolific creators were no less talented. They were asked not to design artistically but to create furniture for the “volk”, or ordinary people. Pieces were expected to last, to be versatile, easy to reproduce and functional, but also elegant and well-designed.
Overall, Czech mid-century modern designs tend to be more sober than their French, German, American, and even Scandinavian counterparts. As demonstrated by these chairs, form and decorative elements played a role, but innovation and artistry took a backseat to factors like functionality and ease of production. This pair has a sober design that relies on materials as the primary decorative elements. The solid beech frames are governed by straight lines with the seats and backs covered by woven sections of wicker. The only entirely decorative element is the rounded end of the elongated back legs. However, the design manages to use functional elements in a decorative way as well, which is most apparent in the wider wooden plates on the armrests. Aesthetically, the wickerwork stands out thanks to the expert weaving technique and the natural beauty of the material. The wicker accentuates the beech frames and the gentle curve of the seats and backrests as well.
For much of the 20th century, industrial, and furniture designers in the Eastern Bloc created their work in near anonymity — including in the former Czechoslovakia, where communist ideologies ran counter to capitalist ideas like branding and acclaim. Now, however, 20th-century Czech designs are making their way back onto the international stage. In the process, the influence their ingenuity had on Western design is sparking a long-overdue appreciation for their work.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
21.25 in W x 24.6 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 17.71 in ; Arm height 26.77 in
54 cm W x 62.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Arm height 68 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognized term around the world, standing for the characteristic style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these lounge chairs show, furniture created in this period are characterized by clarity in design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
This pair of lounge chairs exudes quality and personality from all angles. Their classic shape is formed by the generous seat and embracing back. The large, curved backrests feature tufted buttons and follow the curve of the voluptuous seats, creating an inviting and open look which is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The tufting stitches are festooned with thirteen, symmetrically arranged buttons on each chair, that sink into the soft upholstery. The tapered, lacquered wood legs prevent the chairs from looking heavy by slightly lifting them off the ground, while their warm brown colour nicely contrasts the soft, light colour of the bodies. The back legs are splayed to provide structural support to the chairs.
Thanks to the sheepskin, the chairs give a natural, textured look, making them ideal to blend a stroke of modernity to any space, with a nod to organic, simple artistry. Sheepskin is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The artisanal production quality is evident throughout this pair and takes the Danish idea of “furniture that last for generations” seriously.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
32.28 in W x 33.46 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
82 cm W x 85 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
About the Designer:
The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.
Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects. The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.
Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognizable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
Amidst the tumultuous political landscape of 1970s Czechoslovakia, designers demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite the constraints imposed by the era, they managed to create innovative and functional pieces that embodied the principles of modernism. These club chairs, initially housed in the iconic RTVS program building - completed in 1975 - stand as clear visual icons to this creative spirit. The building's modernist style, innovative use of materials and structure likely influenced contemporary furniture designs, including these chairs. The chairs' design language, with its emphasis on clean lines, functional spaces, and modern aesthetics, echoes the architectural style of the building.
This set of eight club chairs from the 1970s are a captivating embodiment of geometric modernist design. Each chair features a cylindrical base with a circular seat, creating a robust foundation. The backrest and armrests - designed as a single, unified piece - form a semi-enclosed structure that envelops the sitter. This design juxtaposes sharp lines and right angles with the soft, rounded seat and premium fabric, creating a visually intriguing and inviting appearance. These chairs are upholstered in a light, plush fabric, adding comfort and sophistication to the bold, rigid form. The chairs' minimalist aesthetic, with their clean lines and lack of excessive decoration, reflects the modernist principles prevalent in Czechoslovakian design. The designers of the era, such as Jindřich Halabala, Miroslav Navrátil, and Karel Kozelka, were renowned for their ability to blend modernism with traditional craftsmanship, often using materials like wood, metal, and textiles to create elegant and versatile pieces easily recognisable within today’s design landscape.
The unique fusion of modernist minimalism and traditional craftsmanship in these club chairs not only gives them their distinctive geometric forms, but also makes them a symbol of an era. They embody the innovative spirit of Czech designers during a transformative period in Central European design history. The RTVS, once the tallest building in the former Czechoslovakia, now stands unused and preserved. The design of these chairs is embedded with the RTVS building and Czech history, broadly fused with a timeless aesthetic - a testament to the era's design legacy, serving as a tangible link to the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium alpaca blend fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.33 in W x 27.76 in D x 25.20 in H; Seat height 16.34 in; Seat depth 21.65 in
74.5 cm W x 70.5 cm D x 64 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 55 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Rich in Danish design heritage, this chair model captures the spirit of the mid-20th century, combining natural materials with the sleek, functional style that defined the era. The "Yin" chair is a rare and sought-after collectible that embodies both the beauty and practicality of Scandinavian design.
Danish Modern is known for its emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and an intrinsic connection to nature. Richard Nissen, influenced by this design movement, often combined traditional craftsmanship with innovative forms, resulting in timeless pieces that still resonate in modern interiors. These chairs embody the principles of functional beauty and understated craftsmanship. The fluid lines of the "Yin" chair, along with its harmonious proportions, create an inviting yet sophisticated presence in any space, evoking a sense of balance and serenity that is key to its design philosophy. The chairs feature a sculptural frame made from rich, honey-toned beech wood, which is known for its durability and smooth grain. The seats are woven from natural wicker, which adds texture and an organic touch to the design. With its gently curved lines and refined proportions, the "Yin" chair exemplifies a harmonious balance between form and function, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The design is a visual interpretation of balance, the careful craftsmanship and attention to detail make this pair a timeless focal point in any interior, ideal for both modern and classic settings.
This Yin Chair is a wonderful example of Richard Nissen's commitment to creating functional yet sculptural furniture pieces. It remains a coveted collectible today, admired for its timeless design and connection to one of the most celebrated movements in modern furniture history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.01 in W x 21.66 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 16.34 in
63.5 cm W x 55 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
This pair is the most recognizable model of Danish designer and manufacturer, Svend Skipper, and a great example of the mid-century era design. Skipper only created commissioned pieces, meaning none of his designs were mass-produced.
“Model 91” features a masterfully sculpted teak base and legs. The teak tips “poke out” at the end of the upholstered armrests, which is a very characteristic design element of this model. The high wing-back offers back support, while enveloping the sitter. It also features tufted buttons arranged in a single, horizontal line, adding to the visual interest of the piece. The loose cushion on the seat provides great sitting comfort while also adding to the welcoming look. These details create a sculptural silhouette that made this model popular already in its time.
The design was created in 1956 and this particular piece was manufactured by Skipper Møbelfabrik in the 1960s. For its resemblance to Hans J. Wegner’s “Papa Bear” chair, this model is often referred to by that name, however, “Model 91” was only made upon order. Skipper’s craftsmanship and quality can be observed in every single detail, from the exposed teak arms, to the distinctive shape and level of comfort.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium light wool. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
31.29 in W x 34.05 in D x 38.58 in H; Seat height 15.74 in
79.5 cm W x 86.5 cm D x 98 cm H; Seat height 40 cm
Literature:
Mobilia Volume 6 #73 August 1961, edited by Paul Henningsen & Gunnar Bratvold. Published by [Snekkersten: Mobilia, 1961]
About the designer:
Svend Skipper was a Danish furniture designer and manufacturer. Skipper Møbelfabrik was founded in 1955 by the namesake and has since produced seating furniture as a Danish craft for almost 6 decades. The manufacturer still exists, and “Model 91” has been relaunched in 2011 as a response to its growing popularity and rarity.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This pair of easy chairs is an elegant and comfortable evidence of the mastery and artistry of the Danish cabinetmaker, who, together with his contemporaries, largely defined mid-20th century modern seating.
These chairs feature stunning oak frames paired with fully upholstered cushions in a striped fabric. With a timeless and sturdy design, the pair is especially successful at balancing modernity and comfort. While made of solid wood, they have an open feel both from the back, thanks to the three horizontal slats that compose and divide the backrest, and from the front, through the open arms. The design plays with geometry in a masterful way. The curved lines of the armrests are beautifully crafted and follow the seat’s angle. These curves nicely contrast with the straight lines of the frame, keeping it from appearing too rigid. Thanks to the carved details the pair has an architectural feel. Furthermore, the light fabric works beautifully with the warm brown of the oak. The shape, ergonomic construction and perfect proportions show the thought and expertise that went into the creation of these chairs. The structure is robust, yet still appears elegant and delicate through its detailing. The chairs don’t have excessive embellishments, rather, the stylish upholstery and the beauty of the oak take on a decorative role.
This pair of easy chairs is the perfect illustration of how the combination of Danish design, the work of a true cabinetmaker, and well-chosen upholstery come together to create exceptional pieces. With its classically beautiful form and charming pattern, these chairs can truly elevate any interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor marks and scratches on wood. The chairs have been re-upholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.95 in W x 31.1 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 22.64 in
71 cm W x 79 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Eva and Nils Koppel met while she was studying at the Danish Academy, Copenhagen. Together they studied architecture and later worked in design icon Alvar Aalto’s office. Their furniture pieces are very representative of Scandinavian design - featuring organic shapes, architectural structure, and cosy upholstery.
This pair of chairs have some of the best characteristics of Danish modern design. The cosy and stylish elements of these chairs are especially distinctive of Eva and Nils Koppel’s work. These chairs feature a tiered side profile, starting from the “wings” on top, which step down into the arms and sides of the seats. The rounded edges contribute to the soft and cosy impression of the design, which is complimented by the unique legs that appear to gently clasp the bodies. The back legs are tilted slightly to support the seats. The dark stained, subtly tapered wooden legs pair beautifully with the light coloured fabric of the upholstery. The tufted buttons arranged in three lines enhance the wing-back shape of the backs, while the pairing of materials and colours give an elegant yet understated look to this model.
The Danish design idiom was centred around warm woods, quality fabrics and gentle but robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of Danish culture. The Koppels’ exceptional architectural talent is evident even in these wing-back chairs, which are outstanding not only in the couple’s repertoire, but also among mid-century Danish chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
28.34 in W x 30.9 in D x 39.17 in H; Seat height 17.91 in; Arm height 23.22 in
72 cm W x 78.5 cm D x 99.5 cm H; Seat height 45.5 cm; Arm height 59 cm
About the designer:
Eva Koppel, born Eva Ditlevsen (1916-2006) and Nils Adolf Koppel (1914-2009) were a Danish functionalist architect couple who characterized the post-war era and the public building of the welfare society.
Nils and Eva Koppel met during their shared lectures at the Danish Polytechnic Teaching Institute in 1935, where Eva studied mathematics and Nils studied engineering. The same year, they applied to the Academy of the Arts' School of Architecture, where they were both admitted. The year after, in 1936, they got married.
During their studies between 1938 and 1939, they worked together in Finland at Alvar Aalto's design studio. In 1940, they had their first child and the following year they both graduated from the School of Architecture. Since Nils Koppel's father was Jewish, in 1943 they had to flee because of the Jewish persecution. They fled to Finland and resumed working at Aalto's design studio. In the years following the war, the couple designed a number of single-family homes, and set up a home of their own in 1946. Initially, they erected houses for family and friends, designed wallpaper, chairs, watches, light fixtures, and other art-industrial objects.
In 1954, their joint studio won the architectural competition for the Langelinie Pavilion, which was erected in 1958 and has been preserved. The pavilion's rigorous shape, slim profiles and its design as a 'floating' box are indebted to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's school and the international style. The couple got their first big task in 1954 via family relations: The settlement Søllerød Park. Their house design managed to preserve the scenic parkland, and is now one of the great architectural classics for this time period.
The Koppel couple has received numerous awards and honours, including: The Wood Prize 1960, the Natural Stone Prize 1966 and the Eckersberg Medal 1955. Nils Koppel was also awarded the Knud V. Engelhardt Scholarship in 1951.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Danish furniture designer Illum Wikkelsø believed that furniture should be built to last, to indulge the body and to please the eye. He belonged to a group of designers who represented the “Golden Age” of Danish modern design during the mid-20th century era.
In a world increasingly filled with decoration, the Danish modern style chose to focus on designs that were simple yet meaningful. This simplicity wasn’t about lacking elements but about carefully choosing each one to have purpose and function, and these chairs exemplify that. Wikkelsø generally worked with clean lines, but also had a strong sense of organic expression and was deeply inspired by nature – especially the Danish landscape. He aimed to capture the beauty he saw in the environment around him in his furniture designs. In the case of these chairs, the frame is crafted from oak, an especially durable hardwood that is extremely multi-faceted with a beautiful grain. Oak became an important material in the Danish mid-century period. Furthermore, the precision of the structure and the woven cane is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. The cane elements of the frame are woven in a tight, visually pleasing pattern. It is clear this model is entirely based on Wikkelsø’s artisanship, which hails from a generation of cabinetmakers, upholsterers and furniture producers established before the 1950s. This heritage shines through these chairs with a creative design that doesn’t compromise on quality. Extremely modest and confident at the same time is how this pair of chairs can be best described, showing great craftsmanship skill, and making them a lovely addition to any interior.
The Danish modern movement, rooted in the mid-20th century, was not a fleeting trend but a lasting shift in design philosophy. Its principles, grounded in simplicity, functionality, and a deep appreciation for natural elements, have not only withstood the test of time but have become foundational for many contemporary design approaches.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 26.38 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 25.20 in
74 cm W x 67 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 64 cm
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Amidst the tumultuous political landscape of 1970s Czechoslovakia, designers demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite the constraints imposed by the era, they managed to create innovative and functional pieces that embodied the principles of modernism. These club chairs, initially housed in the iconic RTVS program building - completed in 1975 - stand as clear visual icons to this creative spirit. The building's modernist style, innovative use of materials and structure likely influenced contemporary furniture designs, including these chairs. The chairs' design language, with its emphasis on clean lines, functional spaces, and modern aesthetics, echoes the architectural style of the building.
This set of six club chairs from the 1970s are a captivating embodiment of geometric modernist design. Each chair features a cylindrical base with a circular seat, creating a robust foundation. The backrest and armrests - designed as a single, unified piece - form a semi-enclosed structure that envelops the sitter. This design juxtaposes sharp lines and right angles with the soft, rounded seat and premium fabric, creating a visually intriguing and inviting appearance. These chairs are upholstered in a light, plush fabric, adding comfort and sophistication to the bold, rigid form. The chairs' minimalist aesthetic, with their clean lines and lack of excessive decoration, reflects the modernist principles prevalent in Czechoslovakian design. The designers of the era, such as Jindřich Halabala, Miroslav Navrátil, and Karel Kozelka, were renowned for their ability to blend modernism with traditional craftsmanship, often using materials like wood, metal, and textiles to create elegant and versatile pieces easily recognisable within today’s design landscape.
The unique fusion of modernist minimalism and traditional craftsmanship in these club chairs not only gives them their distinctive geometric forms, but also makes them a symbol of an era. They embody the innovative spirit of Czech designers during a transformative period in Central European design history. The RTVS, once the tallest building in the former Czechoslovakia, now stands unused and preserved. The design of these chairs is embedded with the RTVS building and Czech history, broadly fused with a timeless aesthetic - a testament to the era's design legacy, serving as a tangible link to the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium alpaca blend fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.33 in W x 27.76 in D x 25.20 in H; Seat height 16.34 in; Seat depth 21.65 in
74.5 cm W x 70.5 cm D x 64 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 55 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Amidst the tumultuous political landscape of 1970s Czechoslovakia, designers demonstrated remarkable resilience. Despite the constraints imposed by the era, they managed to create innovative and functional pieces that embodied the principles of modernism. These club chairs, initially housed in the iconic RTVS program building - completed in 1975 - stand as clear visual icons to this creative spirit. The building's modernist style, innovative use of materials and structure likely influenced contemporary furniture designs, including these chairs. The chairs' design language, with its emphasis on clean lines, functional spaces, and modern aesthetics, echoes the architectural style of the building.
This pair of club chairs from the 1970s are a captivating embodiment of geometric modernist design. Each chair features a cylindrical base with a circular seat, creating a robust foundation. The backrest and armrests - designed as a single, unified piece - form a semi-enclosed structure that envelops the sitter. This design juxtaposes sharp lines and right angles with the soft, rounded seat and premium fabric, creating a visually intriguing and inviting appearance. These chairs are upholstered in a light, plush fabric, adding comfort and sophistication to the bold, rigid form. The chairs' minimalist aesthetic, with its clean lines and lack of excessive decoration, reflects the modernist principles prevalent in Czechoslovakian design. The designers of the era, such as Jindřich Halabala, Miroslav Navrátil, and Karel Kozelka, were renowned for their ability to blend modernism with traditional craftsmanship, often using materials like wood, metal, and textiles to create elegant and versatile pieces easily recognisable within today’s design landscape.
The unique fusion of modernist minimalism and traditional craftsmanship in these club chairs not only gives them their distinctive geometric forms, but also makes them a symbol of an era. They embody the innovative spirit of Czech designers during a transformative period in Central European design history. The RTVS, once the tallest building in the former Czechoslovakia, now stands unused and preserved. The design of these chairs is embedded with the RTVS building and Czech history, broadly fused with a timeless aesthetic - a testament to the era's design legacy, serving as a tangible link to the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium alpaca blend fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.33 in W x 27.76 in D x 25.20 in H; Seat height 16.34 in; Seat depth 21.65 in
74.5 cm W x 70.5 cm D x 64 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 55 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This pair of armchairs is what we consider a timeless Danish Modern classic. The “ND83” was designed in 1952 by Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel for the exhibition 'Today’s Furniture, Home Equipment' in the Forum Hall Copenhagen in 1952.
Chairs are often considered especially revealing of a designer's skill because of the strict limits placed on their design by the demands of the human body. With this model, the Ditzels arrive at a clearly-structured solution in which a high degree of coherence is maintained while the chair appears visually light and open. The structure of the chairs is made entirely of solid oak. Each sculpted leg is made of a single piece of timber that ascend gently, giving stability to the curved backs. Rounded oak dowels plug the holes in which the fastenings for the back can be found -these help to create the elegant simplicity and honesty of the frame. The large curved backs extend up to the front, forming the armrests for a cosy and elegant profile similar to that of a tub chair. The elegance is further enhanced by the premium bouclé upholstery which complements the oak gracefully.
Cabinetmaker Søren Willadsen handcrafted these chairs, while them company Selig Co., imported them to the U.S. market from Denmark in 1952. The “ND83” model is still made to order today, however chairs – like these - from the original production show Ditzel and Willadsen’s true genius. The original marking on the wood is retained.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently reupholstered in a premium bouclé fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.9 in W x 25.98 in D x 26.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 cm
78.5 cm W x 66 cm D x 68.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm
Literature:
Hanne Horsfeld Danske Designere, 'Nanna Ditzel', p.86
Oda Noritsugu, Danish Chairs, p.164
Per H. Hansen, Klaus Petersen, Den Store Danske Møbelguide, p.77