Arne Norell "Krister" Armchairs for AB Arne Norell Aneby, Sweden 1960s (sold)




























Arne Norell "Krister" Armchairs for AB Arne Norell Aneby, Sweden 1960s (sold)
This pair of the “Krister” armchair model is a true Swedish design icon, and is among Arne Norell’s cosiest works. These high-back armchairs’ comfort is only rivalled by their stylishness and elegance. Arne Norell was a household name within the interior design-world of Europe, and his models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence.
Raised on a stained wood frame covered in beautiful, light coloured bouclé upholstery, this model symbolizes the heyday of Swedish mid-century design. The gently elongated, tufted back of each chair is accentuated by a loose hanging headrest, which is the standout feature of this model. The removable headrests are simple, yet ingenious design elements that signify the Scandinavian design principle of functionality. The sitter of this model is “hugged” by the ear flaps on both sides of the backrests, and by the loose seat cushions on the raised bottoms. Norell had a unique design idiom, which is clearly visible in this model: function, durability, timeless design, and perhaps above all, comfort. This pair of traditional yet playful “Krister” armchairs combines all of these attributes, which makes this model one of the most sought after works of Norell’s.
These chair were manufactured by ‘Möbel AB Arne Norell’ and have been reupholstered in a premium bouclé fabric to complement and enhance their elegance and comfort. The factory in Aneby, Sweden has been famous for its furniture manufactured by hand. Norell Furniture still operates to this day, keeping the legacy of the great Swedish designer alive.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchairs have been reupholstered recently in premium bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
26.96 in W x 30.7 in D x 40.94 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
68.5 cm W x 78 cm D x 104 cm H; Seat height 42 cm
About the designer:
The Swedish designer, Arne Norell was born in 1917 in Åsele, Sweden, and was active in the post-war era, at the height of international fascination with Scandinavian design.
While little biographical information is available about his formative years, it is known that he opened a furniture workshop in Stockholm in 1954. In 1958, he launched his eponymous manufacturing company, “Møbel AB Arne Norell”, on a two-acre farm in Småland. Through the course of his prolific career, this idyllic setting remained Norell’s central source of inspiration and the site where he designed and produced all of his furniture until he passed away in 1971.
Norell is often praised for pioneering “conceptual” furniture, because he employed traditional materials - leather, turned wood, bentwood, and metal, for example - in unexpected forms, often with lyrical results. His designs have an affinity with those of Danish designer Kaare Klint (1888-1954), who, a generation before, brought time-honoured, vernacular forms into modernist expression. In fact, Klint’s iconic Safari Chair (1933) inspired Norell to create the Sirocco Safari Chair (1964), which is lightweight, collapsible, and held together by leather support straps instead of glue or screws. Norell’s wood-framed Inka Armchair, Indra Sofa, and Ilona Sofa (design dates unverified) are likewise held together by leather.
While Norell’s designs found a solid market within his lifetime, his greatest recognition came posthumously: The British Furniture Manufacturers Association awarded Norell’s low-slung, steel-framed, leather-clad Ari Chair (1966) “Show Piece of the Year” in 1973. Norell’s pieces have become increasingly collectible in the 2010s.
Today, Norell’s daughter and son-in-law, Marie Norell-Möller and Thomas Möller, carry on his work, operating under the name Norell Møbel AB. In 2014, the company celebrated its 60th anniversary. It is the only Swedish company that has continuously manufactured the entirety of Norell’s catalogue since the 1950s. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Lilla Eva” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine, symmetrically arranged buttons.
The upholstery is a premium fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in 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:
27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in
70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
By the 1920s, Carl Malmsten became one of the most sought-after interior and furniture designers in all of Sweden. As a furniture maker he expressed the old, inherited forms as well as the new, bold ideas with his language of design. “Lata Greven”, Swedish for Lazy Count, is Carl Malmsten’s most successful “count chair”. With a klismos-style curved back, this model was produced at O.H. Sjögren, a manufacturer that Malmsten often worked with.
This model is a simplified version of the “Jonas Love” armchair, which Carl Malmsten designed for the New York World Fair 1939. Sweeping curves with an organic impression and utmost quality are the main characteristics that define this pair of chairs. Even as a young designer in the early 20th century, Malmsten advocated artisanal furniture design based on local materials and traditions. “Break all edges thoroughly” was a frequent instruction on his drawings and nature was his great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found in his designs. This “Lata Greven” model is no different, with round, outward curving edges on the back and arms, and an upholstered, cosy seat and back. The organicity of the design is not broken by ornamentation, instead the charming green upholstery is utilised to highlight the shape of the chairs. The chairs are supported by slim, tapered legs made of solid wood with a stunning grain.
Carl Malmsten designed a number of so called “Grevar” (Counts) between the 1930s and 1950s and they were often commissioned for special people or projects. The chairs’ manufacturer, O.H. Sjögren is a furniture factory in Tranås in Småland, and has been active for over 110 years and is thus one of the oldest active furniture manufacturing companies in Sweden. Since the 1950s, O.H. Sjögren manufactured furniture designed by Carl Malmsten, where in the 1950s and 60s, he spent a lot of time to develop his furniture designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
23.62 in W x 25.59 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 18.50 in; Arm height 25.59 in
60 cm W x 65 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 47 cm; Arm height 65 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Nordiska Kompaniet was founded in Stockholm in 1902, and to this day, it is regarded as one of the most renowned Swedish furniture manufacturers. The department store reflected modern society in different ways; it was a place where much was possible and consumption became not just a necessary everyday routine, but a lifestyle and a pleasure.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive sloping armrests. They also hold a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the supple upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. The juxtaposition of these materials creates a striking contrast. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty in order to make them as easy to use as possible. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these armchairs as well.
The overall model beautifully speaks of the zeitgeist of Scandinavia in the early-to-mid-20th century, a period characterised by a spirit of experimentation and a departure from traditional norms towards modernism. Evidently, this set is marked by its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and a bold departure from the ornate styles of the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned and 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:
27.55 in W x 29.13 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 30.70 in
70 cm W x 74 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 78 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
This pair of oaken “Grand Repos” lounge chairs deserves its title of iconic, both in terms of quality and design. This model visually represents the very reason Votre Maison, the French duo, Guillerme et Chambron’s company significantly influenced French design history.
Guillerme and Chambron are known for their high-quality, solid oak furniture and the “Grand Repos” model is without a doubt their most distinctive seating design thanks to its spindle backrest and distinctive frame with plenty of curvature. With a solid wooden frame, the support for the back of each chair consists of six, symmetrically arranged wooden spindles extending upwards. The backrests are slightly tilted for comfort, aided by the generous seats and back cushions. The back cushions are adorned with tufted buttons that add depth to the textured bouclé upholstery. The standout feature of this model are the creative overarching spindles that create an almost throne-like, grandiose effect. The curvature of the arms follows the lines of the backs, and gently curve outwards. “Grand Repos” stands for “great rest” in French, and with a well-though out, elegant design, this pair is sure to provide exactly that. The elegant light colour of the upholstery of the seat and back cushions beautifully compliments the light oak frames. The back cushions are secured with loops that attach to the back spindles, ensuring that the cushions stay in position.
The woodworking truly shows the overall quality of this pair, the frames are refined and the attention to the smallest detail shows the design and manufacturing skills of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. Since each chair was created by hand, they differ marginally in size and shape visible in the backs and legs, making them even more unique.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs’ cushions have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:
Chair 1
31.69 in W x 35.43 in D x 42.32 in H; Seat height 15.15 in; Arm height 21.65 in
80.5 cm W x 90 cm D x 107.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Arm height 55 cm
Chair 2
31.1 in W x 38.58 in D x 41.14 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Arm height 21.85 in
79 cm W x 98 cm D x 104.5 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Arm height 55.5 cm
About the Designer:
Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boulle where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops.
In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known.
The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the 20th century, with Jacques’s son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the École Boulle, having taken the over in 1983. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Bridge Chairs - Fauteuil Bridge - from France are generally lightweight, often part of a set of matching chairs and bridge table. Bridge chairs were originally designed in the late 1930s for ladies for leisure activities, such as for games of bridge, afternoon tea, and gossiping. As this pair of bridge chairs exhibits, the models are stylish, of small proportions, well-made, and extremely comfortable.
This solid oak “Fumay” pair is indeed, part of a dining group designed in 1965 by the world-famous French duo, Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. As the version with arms, this pair’s frames are quite distinctive; the decorative elements on the backrests and armrests show and interesting curvature that is characteristic of the designer duo. These sculptural elements paired with the tapered legs are carved out of the blonde oak in an artistic way, testifying of the quality that the duo’s company, Votre Maison became famous for. The structures have unexpected details, such as the seats, with sides that are covered by the cushions, making them look invisible. Another such detail are the stretchers arranged between the legs at different heights in the fronts and sides. The genius of the design lies in these details that no matter how different, still complement each other. The sleek look is completed by the upholstered cushions in light bouclé fabric, that pairs beautifully with the colour of the blonde oak.
The French designers’ models are considered as a reference among the furniture of the 1950s through the 70s. This pair of dining chairs from the 60s gives a visual explanation why: the proportions, the subtle decorative elements, and the quality of woodworking is of the highest-quality, and the result is an immediately recognizable look that will never go out of style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs’ cushions have been reupholstered recently in a light bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
21.85 in W x 19.68 in D x 32.08 in H; Seat height 18.5 in; Arm height 26.37 in
55.5 cm W x 50 cm D x 81.5 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Arm height 67 cm
About the designer:
Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boule where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops.
In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known.
The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the Twentieth Century, with Jacques’ son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the Ecole Boulle, having taken the reins in 1983. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
These "Berga" chairs by David Rosén for Nordiska Kompaniet reflect the refined elegance and functional clarity that defined Scandinavian modernism. As a prominent figure in Swedish furniture design, Rosén worked extensively with Nordiska Kompaniet, one of the country’s most influential department stores and producers, creating furniture pieces that embodied the ideals of quality craftsmanship, restrained form, and comfort.
This pair of chairs exude a lovely charm and robust aesthetic that is characteristic of the era. In 20th century design, the use of wood held a special significance; it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasised the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. Moreover, in a rather distinctive way, softness and tradition merge in these armchairs. While it is elemental thanks to the solid stained pine and interesting construction, the roundness and elegantly sculpted form still provide a sense of gentleness. Pine was a popular choice of wood in Swedish furniture design during the early-to-mid 20th century. Axel Einar Hjorth was another prominent figure who extensively worked with pine, he was also the head of Nordiska Kompaniet during the time of Rosén’s tenure. Hjorth greatly contributed to the burgeoning Swedish design culture, in which these influences are seen in this pair of chairs.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair of chairs with utmost care for its quality and design. The company was among the most renowned Swedish lighting manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers - and this "Berga" model is a prime example of the great success these collaborations resulted in.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.25 in W x 25.20 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 23.22 in
87 cm W x 64 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
During the mid-20th century, European designers turned their attention to rethinking domestic comfort, and explored how new ideas of form and proportion could transform the experience of sitting and living. Moving away from traditional ornament and into a culture of experimentation, they began focusing on honest materials, balanced lines, and structure. This was a period when modernism evolved into a human-centered vision of modern living.
This pair of lounge chairs captures that spirit with its thoughtful interplay of geometry and tactility. The frames, crafted in solid wood with box joinery, celebrate craftsmanship while maintaining a striking simplicity. The low, grounded stance gives the pieces a quiet strength, while the broad seats invite relaxed, informal lounging. To complement the solid frame, the backrests feature a circular cushion, an unexpected sculptural element that softens the chairs’ rectilinear frames and adds visual interest without unnecessary embellishment. Upholstered in richly textured bouclé, the chairs pair a tactile, inviting surface with the clean lines of their timber base, achieving a compelling balance between warmth and restraint. The traditional joinery details are left visible, underscoring the mid-century belief in structural honesty and the inherent beauty of well-made construction.
As a pair, the chairs are both understated and iconic, a reminder that modern design is not about excess, but about clarity and intention. More than just a functional pair, they reflect a postwar European ethos that embraced innovation while remaining deeply connected to craft and the human experience of comfort.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and dents in the wooden frames. The chairs have been recently 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:
27.36 in W x 31.10 in D x 31.50 in H (including cushion); Seat height 16.93 in; Seat depth 20.47 in
69.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 80 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 52 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The ‘Skrindan’ armchair model was designed in 1963 by iconic Swedish designer Kerstin Hörlin-Homquist. Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, she created some of the most famous Swedish models of the era.
The unique stained beech frames are a visual delight, with subtle decorative elements that distinguish this pair from other models of the era. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created her models with such precision and creativity that still makes them collectible pieces. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have unmistakable backs and sides comprised of symmetrically arranged spindles. As the backs and armrests sit relatively low, the chairs have an open look. The sheepskin upholstery of the back and seat cushions elevate the visual comfort.
OPE Möbler, Jönköping produced the furniture designs of some of Scandinavia’s most renowned designers, such as Ib Kofod-Larsen, Ingemar Thillmark, and of course, Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist. These ‘Skrindan’ armchairs are exemplary of Swedish mid-century quality and design to its core, uniting functionality with an understated, yet interesting and elegant design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. 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:
29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 17.34 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 23.62 in
75 cm W x 85 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 60 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Hörlin-Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war, where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs, gained recognition for their use of traditional materials and forms like fabrics and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Pilot” chairs was designed by Arne Norell in 1967 and each of them was handmade in Aneby, Sweden in the same factory that Norell established himself a decade earlier. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine Swedish modern chair.
The design of these remarkable chairs carries a certain “design weight” that is the result of their understated elegance, premium materials, and the outstanding craftsmanship. Norell was known for his versatile use of wood and leather in his furniture designs that are characterized by comfort and ease and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. These “Pilot” easy chairs are no exception with a design idiom centred on the curved wooden legs, stylish upholstery, and the subtly curved bodies offering gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being. The tightly fitted velour fabric and wood complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing each other’s individual qualities, such as the wood legs’ distinctive curves and the fabric’s rich texture and colour. The result is an infinitely elegant and comfortable look that is unlikely to ever lose its appeal, and only get more stylish with time. This pair of "Pilot" easy chairs encapsulates the essence of Norell’s innovative approach to furniture design. The laminated beech legs allow the shape to be bent and result in the distinctive look this chair model is famous for. Norell began his journey as a furniture designer in the 1950s, becoming renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend comfort and aesthetics through innovative experimentations. During the 1960s, Swedish furniture design witnessed a transformative period marked by a departure from ornate and heavy styles to more streamlined, minimalist forms. Arne Norell played a pivotal role in shaping this evolution, embracing a modernist ethos while staying true to the principles of craftsmanship and quality materials. His designs, including these "Pilot" models, are celebrated for their timeless appeal and functional elegance and style. These chairs epitomize Norell's design philosophy, featuring clean lines, organic shapes, and a commitment to ergonomic excellence. These chairs were produced and are marked by Möbel AB Arne Norell (today known as Norell Möbel AB) in Aneby, Sweden. The workshop was founded in 1954 by Arne Norell, and ever since its establishment, it has been a family business carrying on Norell’s design legacy. In fact, the same factory that Arne Norell built in the 1950s is still where the company exists today in Sweden.
The perks of incorporating these "Pilot" easy chairs into interior design are manifold; their ergonomic design and lush upholstery make them inviting and comfortable, creating an ideal setting for relaxation. Furthermore, thanks to their mid-century modern aesthetic, these chairs can seamlessly adapt to various interior styles, from modern to contemporary, making them versatile additions to any space. The timeless aesthetic of these "Pilot" chairs ensures that they remain relevant and stylish across different design trends. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, easy chairs like the "Pilot" serve as focal points in a room, elevating the overall design scheme. Whether placed in a cosy reading nook or as part of a larger seating arrangement, these chairs effortlessly enhance the visual appeal of the space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium velour 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:
32.28 in W x 29.92 in D x 29.52 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25 in
76.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Arm height 55 cm
About the designer:
Arne Norell started his own workshop in 1954 in the town of Solna, Sweden. Thereafter, he moved to Småland and established his company Möbel AB Arne Norell, today known as Norell Möbel AB (Norell Furniture). He was known for his versatile use of wood, leather, fabric, and metal in furniture characterized by comfort and ease. Norell’s success made him a household name within the interior design-world of Europe. Several models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence.
He was to a great extent inspired by Danish design. Two examples of this influence are the lounge chair Ari and the safari chair Sirocco. Ari was awarded the British Furniture Manufacturer’s greatest award “showpiece of the year” in 1973. Many of the models he designed came into production after his death in 1971. His designs are still handcrafted by the same company today, Norell Möbel AB.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, perfect execution, and exclusivity. Modernist Italian designers’ language was always coherent with current times and congenial to the wisdom of furniture manufacturing, representing an outpost of strong innovation in the panorama of Italian craftsmanship.
This pair is focused on elegant and measured proportions, balanced compositions, and refined décor elements including the exclusive materials. The versatile shapes, from the rounded edges on the top to the square, unattached armrests and tapered legs make these chairs stand out. The V-shaped high backs are visually defining thanks to their sheer size and unusual shape. The enveloping backs become narrower towards the seat, like elegant, slim necks, with the sides flowing into the armrests, creating a structured, but still flowing angle and impression. The beautiful, richly textured bouclé fabric brings out the versatility of the shapes even further, and contrasts the solid wood legs as well. The backs are decorated with seven, yellow cross stitches arranged symmetrically, which further adds to the modern edge.
The 1960s’ Italy was especially passionate about furniture and product design, an area where the country remained faithful to a figurative repertoire of substantial classicism, while not disdaining impulses of authentic modernity. Similar designs are commonly attributed to Paolo Buffa, who - like many of his contemporaries - was extremely active in the Milanese design scene that was just as vibrant as these chairs. In an atmosphere committed to the reinterpretation of the Lombard classicism and Milanese architecture, exceptional pieces were created as this pair shows.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:
24.8 in W x 24.4 in D x 40.55 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 23.22 in
63 cm W x 62 cm D x 103 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 59 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Italian designer Giancarlo Piretti emerged as a leading figure in postwar furniture design, known for combining technical ingenuity with sculptural forms. As a longtime collaborator with Anonima Castelli, Piretti developed groundbreaking designs in the 1960s and 70s, many of which explored modularity and ergonomics. His works, such as the iconic “Plia” folding chair and “Plia” table, won multiple international design awards, and still find their home in museums word-wide - from Austria, to the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and the United States.
The “Alky” lounge chair - which debuted in 1970 - is among his most celebrated works and reflects the experimental spirit of the period, while maintaining a strong sense of comfort and approachability. The chairs showcase their signature curvilinear form, expertly upholstered in a soft off-white bouclé that enhances the chairs’ inviting charm. They are reminiscent of clouds, both through their flowy, plushy shape and soft fabric. The design features a continuous silhouette, from backrest to seat to base, all supported by a lightweight aluminium structure. The sled frames also rest on aluminium feet, ensuring the stability of the chairs. Their curved shape hugs the body and provides a comfortable sitting experience, further highlighting Piretti’s attention to ergonomics. The design is balanced, with the textile surfaces adding warmth, contrasting the modernist structure with a sense of softness.
These “Alky” chairs remain examples of 1970s Italian design and perfect illustrations of how form and function can harmonise effortlessly. Ideal as statement pieces in a living room, lounge, or studio, they offer timeless comfort and a sculptural presence that continues to resonate in contemporary interiors.
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 reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
26.38 in W x 32.28 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 22.05 in
67 cm W x 82 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 56 cm