European Early Mid-Century Modern Armchairs, Europe 1930s (sold)




























European Early Mid-Century Modern Armchairs, Europe 1930s (sold)
This elegant pair of lounge chairs is an interesting bridge between the 20th century’s earlier artistic movements, like Art Deco, and the modernist movement that was about to shape Europe’s furniture design for the coming decades.
The chairs of this pair are gracefully resting on four tapered, solid wooden feet. The strong lines and proportions of the chairs are perfectly balanced with the short feet. Like the legs, the bodies of these chairs are squared as opposing to the predominantly rounded lines of later designs. This angular style is reminiscent of the Art Deco and provides elegant lines. The armrests point slightly upwards, while the backs are softly tilted, creating a modern and welcoming look. The arms are connected to the backs seamlessly, fulfilling the fundamental design principles of exceptional sitting comfort and that the models must look good from every single angle. Quality craftsmanship was evidently of optimum importance for the cabinetmaker who created these chairs. The element that truly elevates these chairs is the upholstery. The cosy, dark long hair of the fabric is exquisite and matches the design’s straight lines very well.
The subtle decorative qualities stemming from the early 20th century art movements and the simple lines deriving from the inter-war art movements give these chairs their elegance. Both chairs are upholstered in warm, brown coloured cow hide.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs are upholstered in brown cow hide. 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 32.48 in D x 28.54 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Arm height 22.04 in
74 cm W x 82.5 cm D x 72.5 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Arm height 56 cm
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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.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This pair of model “903” safari chairs were crafted by one of the most renowned manufacturing companies in terms of design and quality. Horgenglarus has ranked among the world's finest furniture makers for more than 140 years. Born from both adventure and practicality, the safari chair has transcended its 18th-century origins and use in the great outdoors to become a beloved icon of design.
These chairs are iconic pieces of mid-century modern design, blending form and function in a striking way. Created in the 1960s, they feature a masterful combination of rich oak wood and durable leather, emphasizing the elegance of natural materials. There are no screws or joinery securing the leather to the frame, but rather the material is looped around the frame, showing the outstanding artistry of their designer. The oak frames, with their smooth, clean lines provide both stability and comfort, while the leather seating highlights a touch of luxury and appreciation of natural materials - the leather’s warm tone complements the wood beautifully, enhancing the overall organic look of the pair. The oak wood is carefully crafted to highlight the grain, giving each chair a unique character. The chairs' foldable design allows for easy storage and portability, a key characteristic of the safari chair style, which was originally created for outdoor use but has since become a timeless symbol of versatile, functional design. The result is a pair of chairs that feel at home in both modern and traditional settings.
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this pair exudes both elemental modern elegance and comfort, making it a stylish addition to any interior space. Whether in need of a statement piece or a comfortable spot to unwind, high-quality leather safari chairs are a great choice to bring a dash of stylish allure to any space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. The colour of the leather varies slightly in each chair. The leather has developed a natural patina over time. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
23.23 in W x 20.87 in D x 33.27 in D x; Seat height 17.72 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 25.59 in
59 cm W x 53 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 65 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The mid-to-late 20th century marked a golden era for Italian interior design. Amidst a booming economy and a newfound sense of optimism, Italian designers began to explore and experiment with form and function, and create iconic pieces that defined the period. Resulting from this era are timeless pieces of classic design that remain highly sought after and appreciated to this day.
The silhouette is the central visual element of this pair, as their low profile and strong presence dominate the model. The wooden frame showcases a raw, natural grain, providing visual depth and a sense of craftsmanship that speaks to the period's emphasis on quality materials. The joinery is understated but solid, allowing the structure to feel sturdy without heaviness. Adding a touch of understated luxury, the cushions covering the chairs further create natural visual comfort. They are adorned with delicately tufted buttons, arranged in a timeless pattern. Undoubtedly this pair fulfills its functional purpose, ensuring comfort. Thanks to the excellent craftsmanship, the user can enjoy a comfortable sitting experience, while the slightly reclined seats allow for a relaxed position. These functional aspects also reflect the Brutalist design principles, emphasizing minimalist form and practicality. The exposed joints and structural elements are reminiscent of industrial design, celebrating the beauty of rawness and mechanical ingenuity.
While the second half of the 20th century saw the takeover of mass production and many - now iconic - futuristic designs, this pair preserves the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials. Countering the often quite vivid colours and designs of the era, the beautiful wooden frame is paired with light-toned upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wood is raw and untreated. Items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The cushions have been upholstered 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:
34.64 in W x 34.64 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 14.37 in; Seat depth 20.86; Arm height 18.70 in
88 cm W x 88 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 36.5 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 47.5 cm
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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: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
During its heyday, Art Deco represented luxury, glamour, exuberance and faith in social and technological progress. The movement peaked in popularity around the 1930s, spreading across Europe and the United States up to the start of World War II. Art Deco designs featured rare, expensive, innovative materials and exquisite craftsmanship.
In line with the Art Deco movement during which they were designed and manufactured, these chairs illustrate the bold, rich and luxurious aesthetic of the era. Before giving way to mid-century modernism and its focus on function over form, Art Deco pieces coupled geometry and craftsmanship to arrive as elegantly impressive additions to their interiors. The highlight of this pair of armchairs is the wide curved shape of the rounded arm rests, veneered with walnut wood, which dictate the chairs’ silhouette while ensuring both visual appeal and durability. In true Art Deco fashion, well-thought-out details offer glamorous touches to the chairs, as can be seen from the subtle addition of decorative metal studs at the juncture of the front legs and armrests. Living up to their rich history, the chairs feature thick back and seat cushions, upholstered in a soft muted rose-coloured mohair fabric, increasing comfort even further. The stout wooden legs balance out the voluptuous body, while flowing effortlessly as a continuation of the armrests.
Created during an age of innovation - from materials, to shapes and techniques - these chairs showcase that the European furniture designers’ artistic approach was anchored in the Art Deco movement. Through their graceful rounded form and quality craftsmanship, this pair of armchairs makes for the perfect stylish touch of warmth and charm.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently reupholstered in a premium mohair 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:
30.70 in W x 36.22 in D x 35.83 in H; Seat height 16.93 in; Seat depth 22.44 in; Arm height 25.39 in
78 cm W x 92 cm D x 91 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 57 cm; Arm height 64.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
The Brutalist movement showcased how bold forms and the organic character of imperfect materials can beautifully transform into standout pieces through the creativity of skilled craftsmen. This pair of chairs might seem bold and rugged at first glance, however, at closer inspection, it is clear that the design is very well-thought-out; the lines are precisely sculpted, and the joinery is tight.
These armchairs reflect the deliberate simplicity, rawness and strength sought out by the creators of Brutalist pieces. Without any heavy ornamentation, the focus falls on the natural materials, the authenticity being celebrated, rather than disguised or embellished. This choice of wood and leather not only aligns with the organic principles of Brutalism, but it also contributes to the chairs' overall longevity in both form and function. It is evident that the maker of these chairs possessed great talent in cabinetmaking, and used high-quality materials that became even more appealing with the decades gone by. This is visible in the beautiful patina of the leather and the wood. The chairs’ proportions are harmonious, with high backs, low seats, and widening armrests, which in combination add to the visual interest of the design. The beauty of craftsmanship is evident in every detail - the chairs embody a sense of history and modernity, making them versatile and stylish additions to any space. Their form speaks to an appreciation of both past and present, offering a sophisticated and inviting seating option.
From architecture to individual pieces of furniture, materials, and colour palettes, the brutalist style seems to have earned a permanent spot on the décor trend list. Similarly, wood has never gone out of fashion, and pieces combining the movement and the material are only gaining popularity today. These solid wood armchairs are equally striking standing alone, or as a set in an interior with a medley of styles.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The leather has developed a natural patina over time. The materials may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. These chairs come with their original upholstery or have 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:
27.16 in W x 22.04 in D x 31.69 in H; Seat height 12.20 in; Seat depth 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25
69 cm W x 56 cm D x 80.5 cm H; Seat height 31 cm; Seat depth 42 cm; Arm height 54 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This pair of “Polar” lounge chairs was designed by the eminent Finnish designer, Esko Pajamies, and produced by Lahden Lepokalusto Oy Finland during the 1960s.
These leather chairs feature a half moon shaped backrest and comfortable, aesthetically pleasing cushions. The sitting cushions are tufted, and along with the upholstered armrests, have a beautiful patina. The strong and sturdy wooden frame provides a beautiful contrast to the black leather, and with the chrome plated steel connections supporting the curved armrests, it gives these chairs a modern look.
The legs have similar chrome plated steel details, which provide the chairs with an almost floating appearance. The open wooden frame further contributes to the spacious feel of the design. The chairs have their original black leather upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Piping has some minor repairs. Leather has some minor marks. Note: Although from the same source, the items differ a little bit in height. These chairs come with their original leather or have 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:
29.53 in W x 40.56 in D x 25.99 in H; seat height 16.34 in
75 cm W x 103 cm D x 66 cm H; seat height 41.5 cm
Literature:
Arkkitehti-lehti magazine, 1965.
About the designer:
Esko Lauri Alvari Pajamies (born August 20, 1931 Helsinki - September 26, 1990, Eloúnta, Greece) was a Finnish designer, especially known for his upholstered livingroom and public furniture.
Pajamies graduated as an interior architect in 1954, and established his own design studio in 1961. In the 1960s, Pajamies designed the “Bonanza” couch, which combined leather and solid oak, starting the line of his characteristic mixture of materials. The “Koivutaru” armchair made of bent birch at the end of the 1970s. Pajamies’ workshop also designed furniture for the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport's passenger terminal.
The Finnish designer and architect was awarded the State Art Prize in 1979. Besides being active as a designer, Pajamies was an avid Jazz Trumpeter. ~H.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This pair of armchairs by Swedish-German designer, Otto Schulz, is a beautiful example of his repertoire of cleverly constructed pieces. With a creative and masterfully crafted hardwood structure and leather upholstered seat and backrests, this model truly deserves its place in Swedish design history.
Schulz's designs are a mixture of modern and baroque styles, as evidenced by these chairs. The pair was constructed with extraordinary care using beech and leather. From the carved backrests to the curved legs, the woodworking is exceptional. The beech is not overworked, letting its natural qualities and appeal define the frames. The fluidity of the carvings creates a harmonious contrast with the chair's angular structure, resulting in a design feast. Schulz modernised the traditional shape, avoiding excessive ornamentation while retaining the important features: the broad seats and backrests that give the chairs character and provide ample support for the human body. Furthermore, the combination of the materials gives a strong, rustic appearance. The colour of the leather compliments the shade of the beech beautifully. Further adding to the visual delight of this pair are the rows of metal screw caps that fix the leather to the frame.
It is evident that the maker of these chairs possessed great talent in cabinetmaking, and used high-quality materials that became even more appealing with the decades gone by. This is visible in the beautiful patina of the leather and the wood. Otto Schulz's designs are well recorded, depicted among some 1,600 watercolors, sketches and drawings that are archived at the Rhösska Museum in Gothenburg.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and marks. These chairs come with their original leather upholstery or 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:
26.18 in W x 25.19 in D x 30.11 in H; Seat height 11.41 in; Seat depth 22.44 in; Arm height 22.83 in
66.5 cm W x 64 cm D x 76.5 cm H; Seat height 29 cm; Seat depth 57 cm; Arm height 58 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
In the mid-century design era, often a piece of furniture would combine only two materials or colours – creating tension and harmony without fuss or superfluous ornaments, and these armchairs are perfect examples of this sentiment.
This exceptional pair, created by the renowned Dutch designer Louis van Teeffelen for WéBé, embody the essence of the mid-century modern movement with a distinct, sculptural flair. Familiarly referred to as the "Penguin" armchairs, the design is inspired by the organic and fluid shapes of nature, with a backrest that resembles the graceful curve of a penguin's wings. The chairs are expertly crafted from warm, rich wood, a hallmark of mid-century furniture, and feature finely executed curves and smooth transitions between the arms, seat, and back. The design emphasizes comfort and functionality, with wide cushioned seats and a slightly reclined backrest that provides excellent support. The wooden frame, which has been skillfully shaped to create an almost seamless look, adds an elegant and natural touch to any room. The faux leather upholstery enhances the striking visual appeal, ensuring the chairs not only serve as functional seating but as statement pieces within a living room or lounge space. With their signature fluid lines and sculptural presence, these "Penguin" armchairs combine the refined simplicity of mid-century modernism with an inviting, human-centric design.
The overall design is a piece of art that exudes both sophistication and comfort, offering a timeless blend of aesthetics and craftsmanship that remains highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike. Their enduring popularity underscores their status as iconic examples of mid-20th century Dutch furniture design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and marks. These chairs come with their original artificial leather or have 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:
28.74 in W x 26.37 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 17.51 in; Seat depth 19.29 in; Arm height 25.98 in
73 cm W x 67 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 44.5 cm; Seat depth 49 cm; Arm height 66 cm
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
This set of four of “Polar” lounge chairs was designed by the eminent Finnish designer, Esko Pajamies, and produced by Lahden Lepokalusto Oy Finland during the 1960s.
These leather chairs feature a half moon shaped backrest and comfortable, aesthetically pleasing cushions. The sitting cushions are tufted, and along with the upholstered armrests, have a beautiful patina. The strong and sturdy wooden frame provides a beautiful contrast to the black leather, and with the chrome plated steel connections supporting the curved armrests, it gives these chairs a modern look.
The legs have similar chrome plated steel details, which provide the chairs with an almost floating appearance. The open wooden frame further contributes to the spacious feel of the design. The chairs have their original black leather upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Piping has some minor repairs. Leather has some minor marks. Note: Although from the same source, the items differ a little bit in height. These chairs come with their original leather or have 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:
29.53 in W x 40.56 in D x 25.99 in H; seat height 16.34 in
75 cm W x 103 cm D x 66 cm H; seat height 41.5 cm
Literature:
Arkkitehti-lehti magazine, 1965.
About the designer:
Esko Lauri Alvari Pajamies (born August 20, 1931 Helsinki - September 26, 1990, Eloúnta, Greece) was a Finnish designer, especially known for his upholstered livingroom and public furniture.
Pajamies graduated as an interior architect in 1954, and established his own design studio in 1961. In the 1960s, Pajamies designed the “Bonanza” couch, which combined leather and solid oak, starting the line of his characteristic mixture of materials. The “Koivutaru” armchair made of bent birch at the end of the 1970s. Pajamies’ workshop also designed furniture for the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport's passenger terminal.
The Finnish designer and architect was awarded the State Art Prize in 1979. Besides being active as a designer, Pajamies was an avid Jazz Trumpeter. ~H.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The “Little Adam” chair model is from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection from the Triva Series, which was created in 1958 by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
These armchairs hold 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, Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist created the gentle, peculiar shape of these armchairs that is only increasing in popularity even today. Thanks to her unique vision, the “Little Adam” has an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seat, the chairs still have the impression of hugging the sitter. The fully upholstered body elevates the visual comfort, with a stitch tufted backrest that is festooned with buttons arranged in a hill shape. This subtle form of decoration highlights the shape of the back by mirroring it, while also accentuating the light fabric by giving it extra depth. The stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the organic form of the body. Contrasting the front legs, the back ones are lightly splayed to provide great structural stability.
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, the “Little Adam” armchair has become iconic. Thanks to the upholstery’s soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design, these armchairs are a perfect example of the gentle mid-century modernism Swedish design of the era is beloved for.
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 re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
28.74 in W x 28.74 in D x 28.93 in H; Seat Height 15.74 in; Arm height 22.24 in
73 cm W x 73 cm D x 73.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Arm height 56.5 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."
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. ~H.
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Post-war European seating increasingly moved toward lighter and more flexible forms, reflecting a broader modernist interest in practicality of construction. Rather than concealing how a chair was assembled, designers emphasised the frames, experimenting with materials like plywood, die-cast aluminium, and fiberglass. This pair of armchairs reflects the time period through its crossed metal frames and suspended seating, combining utilitarian construction with a distinctly sculptural presence.
The chairs are constructed around slender metal supports that intersect beneath the seat in an X-shaped formation, giving the pieces both stability and a dynamic sense of movement. Rather than relying on heavy upholstery or enclosed forms, the seating is created through black leatherette elements attached to the frame. The backs, armrests and seats feature the original material, a testament to the vintage character of the chairs. The arm straps are suspended within the structure through brass elements connecting them to the backs and legs, allowing for a natural curve that contrasts the rigidity of the industrial materials. The gold brass hardware and finials stand out against the silver frames, adding chromatic variation. On the side, the angled supports and suspended seating create a layered composition of intersecting lines and surfaces that fascinates regardless of the viewpoint.
The balance between practicality, comfort, and sculptural form gives the pair an architectural character. The exposed framework keeps the design visually open and adaptable, while the leather introduces warmth and texture.
Condition:
In used vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have some marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration. The brass details are patinated. The armrests are delicate. The pair come in their original upholstery, we advise reupholstery. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
21.06 in W x 25.19 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 20.27 in; Seat depth 18.89 in; Arm height 24.40 in
53.5 cm W x 64 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 51.5 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 62 cm