Swedish Armchair with Footstool, Sweden ca 1950s (sold)






































Swedish Armchair with Footstool, Sweden ca 1950s (sold)
Swedish Modern furniture reflect Scandinavian materials and craftsmanship and mix them with a modern style as it is exemplified by this armchair. This simple design is accompanied by a matching footstool that completes it both aesthetically and in terms of functionality.
In general, qualities of Swedish modern furniture included simple clean lines without excess decoration, made with mostly light-coloured woods like teak and oak. This set has an understated look that is harmonious and well-balanced. The armchair has a Carl Malmsten-like silhouette, with gentle, rounded edges and a warmth expressed through the design. The subtle decorative qualities stemming from the early 20th century’s art movements and the simple lines deriving from the inter-war art movements gave this style its elegance. The thread running through Scandinavian design is functionalism, which is the most evident in the sturdy frame and the footstool, which elongates the armchair’s seat, making it perfect to lounge. At the same time, the half circle shape also serves a purely aesthetic role, enhanced by the mustard cross stitches that also tie it together with the chair. The tapered legs assure stability and along with the bouclé upholstery, add to the overall modern look.
Moving into the machine age, life became somewhat easier, and functionalism evolved into also meeting the emotional needs of people. This gave Swedish functionalism a more natural and humanistic side, which is evident when looking at this set.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair and footstool have been reupholstered recently in premium bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
Chair
25.78 in W x 30.31 in D x 34.64 in H; Seat height 14.96 in
65.5 cm W x 77 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 38 cm
Footstool
24.8 in W x 18.11 in D x 14.17 in H
63 cm W x 46 cm D x 36 cm H
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This lounge chair by Swedish designer, Gösta Jonsson, exudes quality and personality from all angles, and is the designer’s most famous model. The basic Swedish design principles are all present and upholstered in soft and stylish sheepskin.
With organic forms and harmonious proportions, this model is an excellent example of great Swedish design from the era. Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this lounge chair has a classic shape, paired with a modern edge. The generous seat and back are welcoming, with the latter curving in such an angle that the sitter is “hugged”. The large, curved backrest features tufted buttons and follows the curve of the equally generous seat, creating a harmonious look. The backside of this chair is quite striking, as it is created from a single piece stemming from the base. The sheepskin used for the upholstery is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It elevates the sheer size and shape of the chair, especially its back, beautifully. At the same time, the wood also remains in the focus, as it is the most important material in Swedish mid-century design. The solid, stained wood legs are tapered to lighten the look, but are thick enough at the top to provide adequate joinery strength.
The artisanal production quality shows throughout this chair and takes the Swedish idea of furniture that last for generations seriously. The harmony of craftsmanship, the materials and the design makes this lounge chair ideal for any interior and style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.7 in W x 34.64 in D x 27.95 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
78 cm W x 88 cm D x 71 cm H; Seat height 41 cm
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect and furniture maker Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for Sweden’s Nordiska Kompaniet department store from 1926 to 1938. During this time, Hjorth designed the “Sportstugemöbler” series, (which translates to “sports cabin furnishings”) a collection of wooden furniture designed for country homes. The various models in the sportstugemöbler series took their names from locations in the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and Utö.
The “Lovö” model, designed within the series of chalet furnishings, was initially launched by Nordiska Kompaniet in 1932. The series was a response to a new and growing demand for furnishings for leisure houses where the style was more informal. This chair is crafted from local pine wood, while the backrest features iron rivets. The juxtaposition between the pine and iron provides a rustic, sturdy and resilient feel, elevating the timeless look of the model. The chair combines a simple and honest form of the handcrafted style of traditional Nordic “allmoge” furniture, and the international 20th century Modernist movement. The result is a modest yet visually interesting design with a strong silhouette. The pine body is composed of a low, curved back that is slightly tilted in order to increase the sitter’s comfort - highlighting the functional nature of the chair. The seat features a loose, removable cushion, upholstered in a textural, striped fabric. Not only is the design of this model unique, but the colourful, cushion further increases the special character, ensuring remarkable charm. The design is completed by four square, straight legs, offering sturdiness.
The “Sportstugemöbler” series had a lasting influence on Hjorth’s contemporaries, inspiring other big names within Nordic design, such as Carl Malmsten. From an international perspective, this series is the forerunner of later pioneering designs, so it comes as no surprise that these “Lovö” chairs became part of modernist design history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This chair comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:
20.86 in W x 20.07 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 16.92 in
53 cm W x 51 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 43 cm
About the designer:
Axel Einar Hjorth was born in a small Swedish village named Krokek, just outside Norrköping, on March 7, 1888. At the age of 20, he moved to Stockholm to study architecture and design at the Högre Konstindustriella Skolan.
Although he never graduated, in the 1920s Hjorth started working as a furniture designer for various manufacturers, such as H. Joop & Co., Myrestedt & Stern, Jonssons, and Nordiska Kompaniet. Hjorth’s designs from this period had neoclassical features combined with Swedish Grace. This romantic national style of Sweden was elegant and refined, yet simple. The anniversary exhibition of 1923 in Gothenburg marked the breakthrough of Swedish decorative arts, and made Axel Einar Hjorth a well-respected artist. From October 1926, Hjorth became the chief designer and architect of Nordiska Kompaniet department store in Stockholm. In the 1930s, Hjorth designed a furniture collection out of pine meant for serial production known as Sportstugemöbler (furniture for holiday houses).
Hjorth’s designs, from the luxury of neoclassicism to the severity of functionalism, are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He played a significant role in the development of Swedish society as a whole, and particularly in Swedish industrial art.
Today Hjorth is often viewed as a precursor to the modern designs popularised by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Royére, Pierre Chapo, or Josef Frank. Recently, there has been a revival of appreciation for his work, showing his genius in a new light.
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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: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming armchair is unique evidence of how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. Berga Möbler, later called Berga Form, began manufacturing furniture of the highest quality in 1896.
This armchair holds all the characteristics that define the manufacturer's style: soft, organic, playful, and sophisticated. The model is slightly tilted backwards allowing for a pleasant sitting experience. The tapered wooden legs add a touch of mid-century modern flair apart from being structurally integral, while the two front legs have a precise curvature towards the end; a feature which has become a distinctive feature of Berga Möbler's designs. The rounded backrest and armrests are just some of the elements that define the elegance of the chair. Slightly inclined towards the backrest, the armrests enhance the excellent seating experience, making this piece a great choice for any contemporary living space. The back is tufted with two large buttons that allow for a friendly and welcoming appearance. The cushioning is firm yet plush, perfectly balancing comfort and support. This attention to detail ensures that the armchair is beautiful and practical for everyday use.
Crafted with precision and finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension, this armchair stands the test of time thanks to both their visual and material quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. 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:
29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 17.71 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.62 in
75 cm W x 85 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 45cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
While they play a prominent role in both architecture and pop culture, rocking chairs solidified their place in Scandinavian design history as well. As this Swedish model proves, functionality can manifest in many forms, but it is always accompanied by both great material and aesthetic quality in Swedish design.
Taking influence from the golden age of modernism in Sweden and the 1930s’ cabin furniture, this rocking chair was made in the famous “sportstugemöbel” style, originally intended for Swedish summer houses. Solid pine was the preferred material in this specific style and some of the most prominent Swedish designers created models for these summer residencies, including Axel Einar Hjorth and Carl Malmsten. Functionality and longevity were the guiding principles for the style, and accordingly, for this rocking chair as well. The pine structure is very polished and firm, assembled with an expert joinery technique. The seat is ergonomically carved, and the edges are gently rounded for maximum comfort.
Åby furniture factory was located in Tjureda parish, in Sweden’s Växjö municipality. The company primarily manufactured pine furniture, including the “SMI 110” chair that has the same backseat as this rocking chair model.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.20 in W x 36.42 in D x 34.06 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
64 cm W x 92.5 cm D x 86.5 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This chair is a striking example of mid-century Scandinavian design, blending natural materials with industrial elements. The chair features a robust frame constructed from solid pine, which is known for its durability and warm, organic tones. The wood's natural grain is accentuated through a light finish, showcasing the Scandinavian aesthetics' emphasis on simplicity and connection to nature. The combination of pine and iron not only reflects the practical and resourceful design ethos of the 1940s but also demonstrates a harmonious blend of organic and industrial materials, characteristic of Swedish furniture design during this period.
The chair’s shape and construction show the signs of a master cabinetmaker. The beautiful light upholstery, the wooden frame, and the traditional craft of woodworking translate the primordial beauty of nature into this modern piece. The design aims to maximize comfort while putting an emphasis on elegance and function. This is most visible in the round, welcoming body, enhanced by the light fabric of the chair's cushions. The pine slats form a curved backrest, providing ergonomic support and comfort, while the iron components add structural integrity. The armrests feature a beautiful and unique wood grain, further enhancing the natural beauty of the material.
This armchair by Åby Möbelfabrik encapsulates the timeless appeal of Scandinavian design, where form meets function in a way that feels both natural and modern. Its enduring materials and clean lines make it a versatile piece that could easily complement various interiors, from rustic to contemporary. The armchair stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and innovative design principles that defined Swedish furniture making in the mid-20th century.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The 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:
28.34 in W x 29.13 in D x 30.31 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
72 cm W x 74 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 42 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
This upholstered armchair reflects the quiet confidence of Scandinavian design from the 1930s, a period when modern ideas were being absorbed into more traditional forms. Swedish furniture of this era often balanced restraint with comfort, favouring clear silhouettes and honest materials over ornament. Rather than chasing novelty, designers focused on proportion, usability, and longevity, creating pieces that felt modern yet familiar.
This chair sits comfortably within that moment, bridging early modernist thinking with the warmth expected in domestic interiors. The armchair is defined by its solid wooden frame, which gives structure and presence without overpowering the soft upholstery. The straight, architectural arms frame the seat and back in a way that feels deliberate and grounded, while the slightly reclined backrest invites relaxed sitting. Upholstered in a dusty pink fabric, the chair gains a subtle softness that tempers the firmness of the wood. The fabric adds depth and tactility, catching light gently and emphasizing the slightly rounded edges. The proportions are compact but generous, making the chair feel supportive without appearing heavy. Every element, from the thickness of the cushions to the clean transitions between wood and fabric, suggests careful craftsmanship and an understanding of everyday comfort.
As both a functional seating piece and a design object, this armchair works easily in a range of interiors. Its calm colour palette and balanced form make it timeless, appealing to those who value character, quality, and subtle design. This is a chair meant to be lived with, offering comfort first while quietly carrying the design language of its time into the present.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature of the wood, the item may have some marks, scratches, or 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:
26.18 in W x 33.66 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 20.27 in; Arm height 23.62 in
66.5 cm W x 85.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 51.5 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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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: 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