Guillerme et Chambron Sculpted Oak Lounge Chair for Votre Maison, France 1950s (sold)




























Guillerme et Chambron Sculpted Oak Lounge Chair for Votre Maison, France 1950s (sold)
The collaboration of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron was destined to be as influential as prolific. As this lounge chair testifies, Votre Maison - the duo’s own company - left an indelible stamp on the design of the 1950s, 60s and 70s as a result of the visual and material quality and distinctiveness of their designs.
This lounge chair has an open oaken construction, featuring masterfully crafted curved and diagonal lines. As this model’s features show, the designers’ focus was as keenly attuned to functionality — furniture’s use in daily life — as to the creation of innovative design. From the duo’s trademark oak frame to the sculptural legs, arms and backrest, this model is characteristic of the designers’ unique style, while also featuring details that are one-of-a-kind. Such a detail is the back that is composed of sculpted oak slats. Uniquely, the back is unattached to the body apart from the seat. The freely standing back is therefore very apparent, even among the numerous other design elements. One such design element is legs’ construction with sharp as well as rounded edges arranged in a sharp angle. Much like the back, the arms are also unattached to the body apart from the seat, which contributes to the airy, sculptural look that defines this lounge chair. To deserve its title, this model is excellent for lounging as its back is slightly reclined and like the seat, is covered by a thick, upholstered cushion. The bouclé’s texture stands out next to the smooth surface of the oak.
Not only did Votre Maison produce over two thousand models during the latter half of the twentieth century, its output also served as a model for a vast field of liveable contemporaneous design. This steady output of beautiful furniture bucked convention not merely in the equal emphasis Guillerme placed on function and aesthetics, but in the almost paradoxical creation of a consistent style that was as staid as it was arresting.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé
fabric.
Dimensions:
28.93 in W x 32.67 in D x 36.22 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
73.5 cm W x 83 cm D x 92 cm H; Seat height 42 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.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
In Sweden, “svensk design” in particular operates as a set of relations linking objects, spaces, people to the cultural ideologies that motivate the persistence of a social democratically infused “way of life.” Thanks to this sentiment, the cabinetmaker of this chair put an emphasis on soft elegance and functionality, making it timeless in every sense of the word.
The Swedish design movement has exercised a wide influence on modern architecture and interior furnishings internationally since the early twentieth century. As this beautiful high-back lounge chair shows, early mid-century modern designers and cabinetmakers not only prioritised outstanding craftsmanship, but also an aesthetic quality that honours the materials and their users alike. Swedish proponents of modern design ideals were able to cultivate their principles in a climate of relative calm with the long-term persistence of crafts traditions being especially formative. This craftsmanship is apparent in this lounge chair with a sinuous body that is as artistic as it is functional. The main principles of Swedish Modernism centre around minimalism, simplicity, and functionalism. This chair achieves to follow these principles while offering plenty of visually arresting qualities, including the high, curved back and exposed, sculptural arms that claw into the upholstery. The rich texture of the bouclé fabric accentuates the expressive shape of the frame that praises the maker’s sense of proportions. The short wood legs don’t take away from the robust, cosy appearance, instead they keep the design grounded and perfectly stable while also providing contrast with the beautiful colour. The expert Swedish craftsmanship is clearly visible throughout this piece, with impeccable woodworking and construction.
This beautiful, inviting lounge chair lives up to its Swedish heritage both in terms of visual and material quality. While its aesthetic is clean and functional, it has an eye-catching look with luxurious upholstery and cross stitches that make it an ideal accent piece as well.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some mark, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
29.13 in W x 37.79 in D x 39.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Arm height 24.21 in
74 cm W x 96 cm D x 101.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Arm height 61.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Bas Van Pelt (1900-1945) was a well-known Dutch interior and furniture designer, known for the clarity and quality of his designs. His works created in the 1930s are regarded for their progressive design and quality.
While Bas Van Pelt's creative work was primarily influenced by the 1920s’ straight lines dominated by The Hague School, this armchair is the result of his more mature design era, which was primarily dominated by natural materials and more curvature. While made of solid oak, this armchair has an open feel to it. The arms and backrests showcase a sense of airiness, highlighted by the slats on the back. This neat detail accentuates the high level of woodworking and creates an effortless look. The arms’ angles are slightly inclined, resulting in a harmonious look while also being ergonomic, with solid support for the spine. The sitting comfort is pleasant, aided by the upholstered cushions. The textured upholstery of the seat and back cushion beautifully complements the frame. The chair embodies comfort and cosiness through the mix of proportions and expertly selected materials. The rich shade of the wood pairs perfectly with the cream upholstery.
Haagse School furniture wasn’t flashy but instead focused on being well-made and to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this chair exemplifies, blending functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of this design period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the chair may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
25.59 in W x 29.92 in D x 34.25 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 24.40 in
65 cm W x 76 cm D x 87 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
During the 1950s, Danish designers led the way in furniture design, with Danish mid-century seating pieces to this day being some of the most iconic of their time.
This armchair embodies the characteristics and ethos of its period. Georg Thams designed this chair in line with his minimalistic, yet functional style for Danish manufacturer Vejen Polstermøbelfabrik, showcasing attention to detail through qualities such as the shape and mix of materials used in the construction. Oak and teak wood are amongst the most durable and naturally beautiful choices of material, making this armchair into a long-lasting and classically elegant piece. Originally, wingback chairs were designed to protect occupants from drafts and offer a touch of privacy, and have since become synonymous with comfort and timeless style. The traditional wingback design is reinterpreted in the mid-century fashion of this piece, moving from the classic rounded and closed structure to a more modern silhouette. The curved sides of the chair maintain their winged look, while the teak armrests feature an open construction. The high, curved back of this piece ensures comfort, transforming the chair into a statement piece of decor with additional subtle details such as the five tufted buttons placed horizontally on the backrest. The brown tones of the angled teak arms and tapered oak legs combine with the soft green coloured upholstery to give the piece a natural, earthy feel.
The quality materials of this armchair ensure durability, while the shape intertwines the traditional design with a quintessential Danish mid-century touch. The beauty of this piece is evident through both its form and function, making it a great addition to a modern interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This chair has 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:
30.31 in W x 37.80 in D x 39.37 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 23.42 in
77 cm W x 96 cm D x 100 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 59.5 cm
Literature:
Mobilia no. 2, February 1956, p. 10, in the advertisement.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Danish 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 cabinetmakers who represented the Golden Age of Danish design during the 1950s and 1960s. With his clear design aesthetic and deep understanding of materials, he was one of the key protagonists in making Danish design style an international phenomenon.
The model “ML 91" effortlessly combines function and aesthetic, keeping the form in service of the user while maintaining an elegant and modern look. The union of the shell-shaped, upholstered body and the crossed wooden legs create a timeless form. While the design is organic and not broken by any heavy ornamentation, the beautifully textured upholstery is utilised to highlight the modern and cosy shape of the piece. This lounge chair also embodies the concept of "hygge," a Danish term that refers to a sense of cosiness, comfort, and well-being. The chair's form promotes relaxation and contentment, inviting one to sit back and enjoy a moment of peace. Its understated elegance creates an alluring atmosphere, making it a perfect piece for the purpose of evoking a hyggelig (cosy) environment in any home.
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. Due to the nature of the wood, the frame of the chair may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
35.82 in W x 34.25 in D x 35.43 in H; Seat height 15.55 in; Seat depth 20.07 in
91 cm W x 87 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 39.5 cm; Seat depth 51 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Saying mid-century modernism had a revival would be a serious understatement. In reality, the designs have never gone out of style completely, especially in Scandinavia. Danish cabinetmaker pieces are timeless thanks to their expert craftsmanship, their visual, and the material quality. This armchair showcases this timelessness with its modern form.
This elegantly constructed chair combines comfort with style. From as early as the 1920s, cabinetmakers and architects frequently collaborated to produce exceptional pieces like this. The chairs’ elegant curves, precise angles and structure all testify of this partnership’s success. Thanks to its low back the design appears very grounded. With straight and curving lines following each other, the model has a dynamism rooted in organicity. Unlike pieces from outside the continent, Danish designers’ products weren’t flashy but rather well-made to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this armchair exemplifies, blending functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of mid-century modernism. As an object, the chair reflects the mid-20th century Danish pursuit of everyday beauty, objects designed not just to serve, but to enrich domestic environments.
The classic charm and versatility of this design allows it to be used as a desk chair, an occasional piece in a curated corner, or part of a formal dining set, this chair can bring quiet sophistication to any setting. It is an ideal choice for a range of interior styles thanks to its thoughtful materials, and subtle craftsmanship.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the chair may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been reconditioned and reupholstered in premium leather. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.19 in W x 18.89 in D x 28.14 in H; Seat height 19.09 in; Seat depth 17.32 in; Arm height 26.57 in
64 cm W x 48 cm D x 71.5 cm H; Seat height 48.5 cm; Seat depth 44 cm; Arm height 67.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This armchair is a compelling embodiment of the French design duo Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet. Their design philosophy was centered around a commitment to accessible furnishing made out of natural materials that suit the rhythms of modern life. Active in mid-20th century France, they played a crucial role in shaping post-war design. Drawing inspiration from modernist movements, they steered the view of design towards a more functional, refined, and streamlined aesthetic.
This chair showcases excellent craftsmanship, care, and precision, visible in the smallest details of the design. The woven seat and backrest, composed of finely braided natural fibres, offer both support and comfort, gently adapting to the shape of the body for a relaxed resting experience. Unlike most chairs, this unique design does not utilise the typical four legs - instead, the structure flows seamlessly into a wide curve that comprises the frame and is the visual highlight of the chair’s form. The armrests appear to be curving down and back in two smooth lines, partially creating a supporting base. The structure of the base is further enforced by a stretcher between the two pieces of bentwood, enhancing stability. Another interesting design detail are the cylinder supports at the front where the arms and base meet, which act as a reinforcement while still maintaining harmony with the rest of the piece. This clever element helps to create a scooped base that supports the entire seat. The bent wood creates a fluid connection, giving the seat a sense of suspension - a light, almost floating presence - with the open surface of the seating and back further enhancing the airy characteristic of the armchair. Though the back rail is a separate piece between the two large curved elements it visually continues the line of the arms, creating the sense of a frame that gracefully encloses the seat.
The impressive silhouette of the armchair is defined by the choice of solid bentwood and woven rope as materials, and techniques that require expert skill, all poured into the final result to create this graceful form. The timeless appeal of this piece complements a wide range of interior styles, capable of transforming any environment with its organic appearance in both form and medium.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
25 in W x 27.55 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
63.5 cm W x 70 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 41 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
While the Klismos chair model originated in ancient Greece, the style made its way throughout the globe, being revived in several design movements and eras. This particular Klismos-inspired chair is a beautiful reflection of the Nordic interpretation of the ancient Greek form.
This chair model boasts a functional, well-thought-out structure, crafted from quality materials. The openness of the piece is highlighted by the frame, which is quite distinctive; the wide backrest shows an interesting curvature that is characteristic of the Klismos style. The back legs also retain the design’s distinctive stance - splayed and curved. The upholstered seat, designed for comfort, is finished in a warm, earthy fabric that complements the natural wood tones, emphasizing the organic and utilitarian principles of the early 20th-century era. Chairs from this period also often appeared as accent pieces, however, thanks to their blend of neoclassical influences and Scandinavian restraint, they became versatile enough with their timeless appeal to stand out. This chair’s simple yet refined structure allows it to integrate into various interior styles, from vintage-inspired rooms to more contemporary settings, where it adds a touch of old-world charm.
The Danish design idiom was centred on warm woods, quality fabrics, and gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of Danish culture. These aspects are evident in this chair, allowing the piece to be extremely modest and confident at the same time.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the frame may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seat has 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:
28.54 in W x 19.29 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 16.33 in
72.5 cm W x 49 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 41.5 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Designed by Henning Kjaernulf, this so-called “kurulstol” or kurul chair, is an iconic model by Danish designer, Henning Kjærnulf. The Kurul chair is an ancient folding chair, originally a folding stool with straight or curved legs. Among the Romans, in addition to being an ordinary utility chair, it was symbolically linked to officials, often within the judiciary.
This armchair combines the traditional kurul structure with a rounded and curved appearance with an upholstered seat and backrest that gives the historic look a modern edge. The oak frame is carved and sculpted in an unmistakeable way, showing the skills of both the designer and the manufacturer. The body is composed of two slats of wood of equal length in the front and back, fastened together in a saltire formation (resembling the letter X) which are extended up at the top and back to form the armrests and the backs as well. The seat, upholstered in soft sheepskin, is stretched between the front and back slats connecting the two. Kjærnulf removed the folding function of the historic design, giving his model a more stable, organic look. This impression is further enhanced by the solid oak, which is carved with great precision into straight and curving lines. The rich sheepskin melts these carved and straight lines together, contrasting to the oak’s smoothness. While the historic kurul chair was often decorated with intarsia, this model only showcases subtle decor elements such as the scalloped bridge under the seat, and the curving armrests.
While the kurulstol is a Renaissance classic originating from ancient Rome, thanks to Kjaernulf, Scandinavian modernism remains at the core of the design. Kjærnulf’s designs are easy to spot in a crowd thanks to his originality, making his pieces like the razorblade chair and this model eternally unique. This chair was manufactured by EG Kvalitetsmobel in Denmark during the 1960s.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
24.8 in W x 26.77 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Arm height 26.18 in
63 cm W x 68 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Arm height 66.5 cm
About the designer:
Danish mid-century designer and architect, Henning Kjaernulf is somewhat of a mystery. A lot more is known about his designs than Kjaernulf himself. His wooden designs, crafted to perfection, speak for themselves. Kjaernulf mainly designed for the Danish manufacturers EG Kvalitetsmøbel, Nyrup Møbelfabrik, and Vejle Stole Møbelfabrik. The latter produced the designer’s well-known teak extending dining table design. The historic archives of the Danish municipality, Stenlille, reveal the history of Nyrup Møbelfabrik, mentioning Kjaernulf’s architectural designs for the company’s factory, referring to him as an architect based in Odense, Denmark.
Kjaernulf’s works reveal quality craftsmanship throughout, featuring clean Danish modern era lines with sculpted edges and shapes. The unique shapes, like his razorblade chair backrests, distinguish the designer from other Danish mid-century designers.
In light of how sought after his dining sets and lounge chairs are, it remains a mystery why so little is known about the designer. The curious background of Kjaernulf if anything, adds more charm to his pieces. ~H.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This mid-century French armchair combines a visually stunning structural body with expert caning technique and high-quality materials.
As with the UK and much of Europe, there was something of a design renaissance in France in the 1950s, due to developments in materials and technology after the war. In France, designers were often also architects, whose focus on functionality and quality resulted in sculptural models, such as this armchair. This model is all about the gorgeous teak structure and the cane panels. Pure, sleek forms, free from artifice or decoration characterise the aesthetic; a style that is commonly referred to as reconstructivism. A reconstructivist design builds upon prior, deconstructionist models and techniques, but adapts them to classic themes and structures, with the goal of creating works of genuine emotion and significance. This armchair in particular recalls the chairs of Swiss architect, Pierre Jeanneret’s designs for Chandigarh in India.
The body features octagonal mesh cane webbing, which is an elegant material that enhances quality and complements the teak wood. Cane webbing is strong enough to support the weight of a sitting person and flexible enough to bend around the sharp corners of wooden frames. Production of cane webbing requires a lot of labour, attention and craftsmanship and every production step involves repetitive careful hand selection. The cane panels are original and in great condition, testifying to the outstanding quality of this armchair and the skill of its maker. ~H.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Original cane panels. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.59 in W x 32.87 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 11.41 in
65 cm W x 83.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 29 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen’s design language operates as a set of relations linking the everyday world - composed of objects, spaces, people - to the cultural ideologies that motivate the persistence of a social democratically infused “way of life.” The design duo’s company was a pioneering force in Danish furniture design thanks to this sentiment.
While the duo solidified their careers with industrial production, more specifically the “AX chair” in the 1950s, this earlier model is perhaps even more stunning in many aspects. “Model 1748” is their most well-known fully upholstered chair, with a design that builds on the traditions of Danish cabinetmaking. The subtle decorative qualities and the simple lines deriving from the early 20th century design movements give this chair its elegance. This armchair shows the homely curviness that defined the design of the mid-century throughout Scandinavia. The back is lightly bent for ergonomic comfort, and have stylish button tufting. The tapered, stained beech legs complement both the shape of the armchair, and the bouclé upholstery.
Quality craftsmanship was of optimum importance for Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen, therefore they collaborated with the best cabinetmakers of the era. This chair was manufactured by Fritz Hansen, Denmark’s most famous company of the time. Founded in Denmark in 1872, and proceeded to manufacture many of the classic icons of Danish Design in the following decades. With a classic look, storied design and solid quality, these chairs are truly soulful and timeless.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has 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:
27.55 in W x 31.88 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
70 cm W x 81 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 42 cm
About the designer:
Hvidt & Mølgaard was a Copenhagen-based, Danish design and architectural firm which existed from 1944 until 2009. Founded by Peter Hvidt (1916-1986) and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen (1907-1993), the company was a pioneering force in Danish furniture design and industrialized production in the 1950s, creating furniture that was easy to mass-produce and economic to transport.
Danish architect-designer Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen was born in 1907. His formative years were spent in Copenhagen, studying at the Aalborg Technical School and at the Art and Crafts School of the Design Museum (graduating in 1928). From 1931 until 1934, he continued his studies in furniture design at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts under the instruction of Danish master Kaare Klint (1888-1954). Peter Hvidt was born in Copenhagen in 1916. He studied architecture and cabinetry at the School of Arts and Crafts in Copenhagen. Subsequently, he worked at various design firms before establishing his own studio in 1942.
In 1944, Hvidt designed the Portex Chair, which was one of Denmark’s first stacking chairs. Hvidt, whose design aesthetic was characterized as traditional throughout the 1940s, exhibited frequently at the Cabinetmaker's Guild exhibitions, as both a designer and architect.
In 1944, the pair co-established Hvidt & Mølgaard Studio, which they ran together until 1975. During this time, the pair created designs for Fritz Hansen, France & Søn, and Søborg Møbelfabrik. In 1950, the pair designed the AX Chair, which solidified both of their careers as industrial designers and became an icon of Danish mid-century design. It was the first Danish chair that was crafted with both a seat and back made of curved laminated wood.
From the 1970s, Hvidt & Mølgaard focused on architectural projects, which spanned office buildings and factories, as well as collective housing projects. They were known for their light, simple, and clear designs, which were carried out with precision. Both Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen retired in 1975, designing over 256 pieces of furniture together over the course of their careers. Their work can be found at New York’s MoMA, the National Gallery in Melbourne, and the Danish Museum of Art & Design in Copenhagen. ~H.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The post-war period in France saw a wide array of inventive and creative contributions to the history of design. What made this particular period so prolific and influential is that French designers’ creations were woven into the fabric of French identity. These designers and ‘ensembliers’ were skilled at bringing together the many artisanal trades for which France has long been famous, thus communicating a broad picture of French skill and style.
As this lounge chairs and footstool set shows, they put their rigour – but also their imagination – at the service of furniture. While the 1960s saw the emergence of colourful styles and eras such as pop art and the mobi boom, this set preserves the understated elegance of the mid-century modern movement. Aside from some floral wallpaper and curtains, the colours of the 1960s were rather subdued, and earthy colours were the most common. French furniture and interior designers of the mid-century are known as masters of elegantly organic forms. As such, this set is characterized by clean lines and a free spirit. With their fully upholstered bodies supported by metal structures, the design is focused on sinuous curves, especially on the contoured arms. The unexpected curves in combination with the velour upholstery of the chair and footstool are very effective in creating a stylish, elegant look. The deep stitches accentuate the shapes and forms. The most unusual element however, are the splayed black lacquered legs with brass caps. Their thin, straight lines are perfect to counter the volume of the bodies, while the materials accentuate each other in perfect harmony.
Though many mid-century French designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today making outstanding pieces like this lounge chair and footstool set highly sought after.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair and footstool have been reupholstered recently in a premium velour 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:
32.67 in W x 35.43 in D x 33.26 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 21.65 in
83 cm W x 90 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 55 cm
Footstool:
20.07 in W x 15.35 in D x 13.38 in H
51 cm W x 39 cm D x 34 cm H
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Generally, Czech mid-century modern designs tend to be more sober than their French, German, American, and even Scandinavian counterparts. However, works by Pavel Novak are an exception - as evidenced by chair. The Czech designer’s repertoire is finally starting to surface, and as this chair shows, we are lucky to witness it.
Novak often worked with a gouge, that originally never had any other vocation than to furnish his farm. This piece is made of hand gouged oak, which is in itself a time-consuming and rare woodcarving technique. While most woodworkers offer help with fixing gouges in wood, Novak used the technique to create this rustic looking body that can be considered to be a functional sculpture. Thanks to the unique, hand-carved texture, the lounge chair is one of a kind, with a unique pattern. The leather seat is suspended between the three legs, one of which is elongated to serve as a backrest. The joinery technique is seamless and shows the outstanding craftsmanship and vision of Novak. The leather straps are inset into the legs in a rough, yet sophisticated way.
In fact, rough yet sophisticated are the adjectives that best define the overall aesthetic of this chair, reflected in the pairing of the materials as well. The patinated leather’s smooth surface contrasts beautifully with the gouged, coarse look of the oak. With its straightforward design, this oiece is a seminal work of Pavel Novak.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor cracks. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the chair may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
40.94 in W x 30.71 in D x 48.82 in H; Seat depth 20.08 in
104 cm W x 78 cm D x 124 cm H; Seat height 51 cm