The original Sirocco chair was designed by Arne Norell in 1964 and was handmade in Sweden in the same factory that Norell established in the 1960s in Aneby. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine safari chair.

The design of this remarkable pair of chairs sits in a long tradition of safari chairs. From Eileen Gray to Kaare Klint and Elias Svedberg, a lot of great designers have made versions of self-assembled furniture, which probably finds it origin in Indian Roorkhee Chairs used by the British military. The Sirocco is an interesting model because all its components are turned and Norell eliminated the pivoting back braces, giving the job of holding the back leather piece to the back legs. The design is quite elaborate, with seams in the leather, and brass buckles. The chairs feature handstitched slings, backrests and seats in green leather with a beautiful patina. The leather parts are secured to the wooden frames in various ways; with metal buckles on the seats, sewn over or screwed into the wood in other places. Like the leather, the wood also has beautiful patina.

With its simple elegance, this pair of Sirocco chairs is truly timeless and could fit in various interiors. They were produced by Norell Möbel AB in Aneby the company Norell founded in 1954. 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 1960s is still where the company exists.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs are upholstered in green leather. 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:

26.57 in W x 25.98 in D x 28.14 in H; Seat height 16.33 in ; Arm height 20.86 in

67.5 cm W x 66 cm D x 71.5 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Arm height 53 cm

Literature:

Svenska Stolar: Och Deras Formgivare 1899-2001, Dan Gordan, p. 264.

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 “show-piece 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.