The Amsterdam School was an exuberant style of architecture and design that was unique to The Netherlands. While it emerged after Art Deco, it was not a weak adaptation of the movement, instead, it was a full-blown Dutch design movement that produced some of the most distinctive furniture pieces of the early 20th century.

This lounge chair showcases many of these distinguishing elements, including its apparent, but simple ornamentation, luxuriant colours, expressive form, and an undulating design. On this front, the Amsterdam School shared numerous aesthetic details with Art Deco, which is why the style is sometimes referred to as “Dutch Art Deco”. Still, there is something distinctive about the Dutch movement that lies in the impression of this chair: playfulness aided by the crisp clarity of architecture. This is most visible in the oak frame’s lines, curves and overall quality of woodwork. The cascading front shows off the craftsman’s skill, while the decorative elements show the purely aesthetic side of the design. The three spheres on the sides break the straight lines of the slat back and arms, while their dark colour immediately grabs the eyes. They are made of calamander wood, a hardwood known for being variegated with stripes of deep black and hazel-brown. The small spheres stand out even more against the deep yellow seat and back cushion that add soft comfort to the chair.

The decorative elements are apparent yet not over the top, which is also where the appeal of the Amsterdam School lies. The style movement saw a resurgence of interest in the 1970s, and in the 21st century that interest is once again renewed in the delightfully unique furniture pieces from the era, exemplified by this lounge chair.

SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks on the wood. The seat and back cushion 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:

24.8 in W x 28.54 in D x 21.69 in H

63 cm W x 72.5 cm D x 80.5 cm H