“Marino” Armchair by Carl Malmsten for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1930s (sold)


























“Marino” Armchair by Carl Malmsten for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1930s (sold)
The “Marino” armchair was designed in 1937, just 2 years before Malmsten participated in the New York World Fair. It was there that the expression “Swedish Modern” was launched, but Malmsten remained a traditionalist, mainly concerned with comfort in the home.
As with so many of Malmsten’s pieces of furniture, “Marino” was modelled on an earlier design – his own or from previous generations. This armchair belongs to Carl Malmsten's earlier works, and the structure is traditionally made of solid pine from Swedish forests. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frame is expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at its very core. While this armchair may seem less “Malmstenesque”, it already has the gentle curves that defined Malmsten’s later designs. This is especially visible in the characteristic rolled armrests that define the profile of this chair model, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The gently bent backrest is highlighted with tufted buttons sitting deep in the lush bouclé fabric. The textured fabric not only contrasts with the warm-coloured wood both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look, it also enlivens every single angle and curvature. The structure is supported by tapered, solid wood legs that add an organic touch to the design.
The design is reminiscent of the furnishings of the sitting room of Ulriksdal Palace, which was given to the crown prince and princess, Gustav and Louise, by the Swedish people in 1923. Carl Malmsten was commissioned to create the decor for the room, and like his “Oskar” armchair, the “Marino” may have similarly been a template for this period and perhaps that is why Carl Malmsten gave the chair a royal-sounding (“of the sea” in Latin) name. The company known today as O.H. Sjögren was established as early as the 1870s. Carl Malmsten, who had hitherto only produced the most exclusive and unique furniture for a limited and affluent clientele, sought manufacturers who were able to produce his furniture in larger volumes without compromising the high demands he placed on craftsmanship and quality. He chose O.H. Sjögren, and together they developed and marketed the many items of upholstered furniture that have become classics today.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in 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:
29.92 in W x 30.7 in D x 33.85 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Seat height 22.83 in
76 cm W x 78 cm D x 86 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 58 cm
About the Designer:
Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.
In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.
Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.
Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today. ~H.
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
This pair of oaken “Grand Repos” lounge chairs deserves its title of iconic, both in terms of quality and design. This model visually represents the very reason Votre Maison, the French duo, Guillerme et Chambron’s company significantly influenced French design history.
Guillerme and Chambron are known for their high-quality, solid oak furniture and the “Grand Repos” model is without a doubt their most distinctive seating design thanks to its spindle backrest and distinctive frame with plenty of curvature. With a solid wooden frame, the support for the back of each chair consists of six, symmetrically arranged wooden spindles extending upwards. The backrests are slightly tilted for comfort, aided by the generous seats and back cushions. The back cushions are adorned with tufted buttons that add depth to the textured bouclé upholstery. The standout feature of this model are the creative overarching spindles that create an almost throne-like, grandiose effect. The curvature of the arms follows the lines of the backs, and gently curve outwards. “Grand Repos” stands for “great rest” in French, and with a well-though out, elegant design, this pair is sure to provide exactly that. The elegant light colour of the upholstery of the seat and back cushions beautifully compliments the light oak frames. The back cushions are secured with loops that attach to the back spindles, ensuring that the cushions stay in position.
The woodworking truly shows the overall quality of this pair, the frames are refined and the attention to the smallest detail shows the design and manufacturing skills of Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. Since each chair was created by hand, they differ marginally in size and shape visible in the backs and legs, making them even more unique.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs’ cushions have 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:
Chair 1
31.69 in W x 35.43 in D x 42.32 in H; Seat height 15.15 in; Arm height 21.65 in
80.5 cm W x 90 cm D x 107.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Arm height 55 cm
Chair 2
31.1 in W x 38.58 in D x 41.14 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Arm height 21.85 in
79 cm W x 98 cm D x 104.5 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Arm height 55.5 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: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Bridge Chairs - Fauteuil Bridge - from France are generally lightweight, often part of a set of matching chairs and bridge table. Bridge chairs were originally designed in the late 1930s for ladies for leisure activities, such as for games of bridge, afternoon tea, and gossiping. As this pair of bridge chairs exhibits, the models are stylish, of small proportions, well-made, and extremely comfortable.
This solid oak “Fumay” pair is indeed, part of a dining group designed in 1965 by the world-famous French duo, Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron. As the version with arms, this pair’s frames are quite distinctive; the decorative elements on the backrests and armrests show and interesting curvature that is characteristic of the designer duo. These sculptural elements paired with the tapered legs are carved out of the blonde oak in an artistic way, testifying of the quality that the duo’s company, Votre Maison became famous for. The structures have unexpected details, such as the seats, with sides that are covered by the cushions, making them look invisible. Another such detail are the stretchers arranged between the legs at different heights in the fronts and sides. The genius of the design lies in these details that no matter how different, still complement each other. The sleek look is completed by the upholstered cushions in light bouclé fabric, that pairs beautifully with the colour of the blonde oak.
The French designers’ models are considered as a reference among the furniture of the 1950s through the 70s. This pair of dining chairs from the 60s gives a visual explanation why: the proportions, the subtle decorative elements, and the quality of woodworking is of the highest-quality, and the result is an immediately recognizable look that will never go out of style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs’ cushions have been reupholstered recently in a light bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
21.85 in W x 19.68 in D x 32.08 in H; Seat height 18.5 in; Arm height 26.37 in
55.5 cm W x 50 cm D x 81.5 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Arm height 67 cm
About the designer:
Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boule 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 Twentieth Century, with Jacques’ son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the Ecole Boulle, having taken the reins in 1983. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This pair of armchairs is what we consider a timeless Danish Modern classic. The “ND83” was designed in 1952 by Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel for the exhibition 'Today’s Furniture, Home Equipment' in the Forum Hall Copenhagen in 1952.
Chairs are often considered especially revealing of a designer's skill because of the strict limits placed on their design by the demands of the human body. With this model, the Ditzels arrive at a clearly-structured solution in which a high degree of coherence is maintained while the chair appears visually light and open. The structure of the chairs is made entirely of solid oak. Each sculpted leg is made of a single piece of timber that ascend gently, giving stability to the curved backs. Rounded oak dowels plug the holes in which the fastenings for the back can be found -these help to create the elegant simplicity and honesty of the frame. The large curved backs extend up to the front, forming the armrests for a cosy and elegant profile similar to that of a tub chair. The elegance is further enhanced by the premium bouclé upholstery which complements the oak gracefully.
Cabinetmaker Søren Willadsen handcrafted these chairs, while them company Selig Co., imported them to the U.S. market from Denmark in 1952. The “ND83” model is still made to order today, however chairs – like these - from the original production show Ditzel and Willadsen’s true genius. The original marking on the wood is retained.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently reupholstered in a premium bouclé 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:
30.9 in W x 25.98 in D x 26.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 cm
78.5 cm W x 66 cm D x 68.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm
Literature:
Hanne Horsfeld Danske Designere, 'Nanna Ditzel', p.86
Oda Noritsugu, Danish Chairs, p.164
Per H. Hansen, Klaus Petersen, Den Store Danske Møbelguide, p.77
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognised term around the world, standing for the style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these armchairs show, furniture created in this period is characterised by clarity of design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
Danish and Scandinavian modern's timeless appeal has made it a go-to for designers and homeowners alike, as furniture in this style can be understated but still stand out in almost any space. This is true for this pair of armchairs as well. Adopting the trend of abandoning ornamentation to benefit the form, the designer of this pair maintained the beauty and warmth inherent to traditional Danish cabinetmaking. From as early as the 1920s, cabinetmakers and architects frequently collaborated to produce exceptional pieces like these chairs. The backs have a welcoming, enveloping shape that embraces the sitter. The fully upholstered bodies are covered in textural, soft fabric that enhances the curves and contrasts nicely with the stained wood legs. The legs are straight and square in the front and slightly bent and splayed in the back to provide structural stability. Unlike models from outside Scandinavia, Danish designers’ products weren’t flashy but made to be last generations while remaining timeless addition to a space, while completing a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this pair of armchairs exemplify, blending high functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with simple lines, elegance and excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of Danish Modernism.
The design of this pair promotes relaxation and contentment, inviting one to sit back and enjoy a moment of peace. The understated elegance and warm tones create an alluring atmosphere, making them perfect for the purpose of evoking a hyggelig (cosy) environment in any home.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Minor marks and scratches on the legs. The chairs have 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:
37.79 in W x 41.53 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Seat depth 22.24 in; Arm height 21.45 in
96 cm W x 105.5 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Seat depth 56.5 cm; Arm height 54.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognized term around the world, standing for the characteristic style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these lounge chairs show, furniture created in this period are characterized by clarity in design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
This pair of lounge chairs exudes quality and personality from all angles. Their classic shape is formed by the generous seat and embracing back. The large, curved backrests feature tufted buttons and follow the curve of the voluptuous seats, creating an inviting and open look which is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The tufting stitches are festooned with thirteen, symmetrically arranged buttons on each chair, that sink into the soft upholstery. The tapered, lacquered wood legs prevent the chairs from looking heavy by slightly lifting them off the ground, while their warm brown colour nicely contrasts the soft, light colour of the bodies. The back legs are splayed to provide structural support to the chairs.
Thanks to the sheepskin, the chairs give a natural, textured look, making them ideal to blend a stroke of modernity to any space, with a nod to organic, simple artistry. Sheepskin is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The artisanal production quality is evident throughout this pair and takes the Danish idea of “furniture that last for generations” seriously.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
32.28 in W x 33.46 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
82 cm W x 85 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
About the Designer:
The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.
Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects. The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.
Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognizable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
During the mid-20th century, European designers turned their attention to rethinking domestic comfort, and explored how new ideas of form and proportion could transform the experience of sitting and living. Moving away from traditional ornament and into a culture of experimentation, they began focusing on honest materials, balanced lines, and structure. This was a period when modernism evolved into a human-centered vision of modern living.
This pair of lounge chairs captures that spirit with its thoughtful interplay of geometry and tactility. The frames, crafted in solid wood with box joinery, celebrate craftsmanship while maintaining a striking simplicity. The low, grounded stance gives the pieces a quiet strength, while the broad seats invite relaxed, informal lounging. To complement the solid frame, the backrests feature a circular cushion, an unexpected sculptural element that softens the chairs’ rectilinear frames and adds visual interest without unnecessary embellishment. Upholstered in richly textured bouclé, the chairs pair a tactile, inviting surface with the clean lines of their timber base, achieving a compelling balance between warmth and restraint. The traditional joinery details are left visible, underscoring the mid-century belief in structural honesty and the inherent beauty of well-made construction.
As a pair, the chairs are both understated and iconic, a reminder that modern design is not about excess, but about clarity and intention. More than just a functional pair, they reflect a postwar European ethos that embraced innovation while remaining deeply connected to craft and the human experience of comfort.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and dents in the wooden frames. The chairs have been recently 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:
27.36 in W x 31.10 in D x 31.50 in H (including cushion); Seat height 16.93 in; Seat depth 20.47 in
69.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 80 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 52 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, perfect execution, and exclusivity. Modernist Italian designers’ language was always coherent with current times and congenial to the wisdom of furniture manufacturing, representing an outpost of strong innovation in the panorama of Italian craftsmanship.
This pair is focused on elegant and measured proportions, balanced compositions, and refined décor elements including the exclusive materials. The versatile shapes, from the rounded edges on the top to the square, unattached armrests and tapered legs make these chairs stand out. The V-shaped high backs are visually defining thanks to their sheer size and unusual shape. The enveloping backs become narrower towards the seat, like elegant, slim necks, with the sides flowing into the armrests, creating a structured, but still flowing angle and impression. The beautiful, richly textured bouclé fabric brings out the versatility of the shapes even further, and contrasts the solid wood legs as well. The backs are decorated with seven, yellow cross stitches arranged symmetrically, which further adds to the modern edge.
The 1960s’ Italy was especially passionate about furniture and product design, an area where the country remained faithful to a figurative repertoire of substantial classicism, while not disdaining impulses of authentic modernity. Similar designs are commonly attributed to Paolo Buffa, who - like many of his contemporaries - was extremely active in the Milanese design scene that was just as vibrant as these chairs. In an atmosphere committed to the reinterpretation of the Lombard classicism and Milanese architecture, exceptional pieces were created as this pair shows.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have 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:
24.8 in W x 24.4 in D x 40.55 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 23.22 in
63 cm W x 62 cm D x 103 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 59 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Rich in Danish design heritage, this chair model captures the spirit of the mid-20th century, combining natural materials with the sleek, functional style that defined the era. The "Yin" chair is a rare and sought-after collectible that embodies both the beauty and practicality of Scandinavian design.
Danish Modern is known for its emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and an intrinsic connection to nature. Richard Nissen, influenced by this design movement, often combined traditional craftsmanship with innovative forms, resulting in timeless pieces that still resonate in modern interiors. These chairs embody the principles of functional beauty and understated craftsmanship. The fluid lines of the "Yin" chair, along with its harmonious proportions, create an inviting yet sophisticated presence in any space, evoking a sense of balance and serenity that is key to its design philosophy. The chairs feature a sculptural frame made from rich, honey-toned beech wood, which is known for its durability and smooth grain. The seats are woven from natural wicker, which adds texture and an organic touch to the design. With its gently curved lines and refined proportions, the "Yin" chair exemplifies a harmonious balance between form and function, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The design is a visual interpretation of balance, the careful craftsmanship and attention to detail make this pair a timeless focal point in any interior, ideal for both modern and classic settings.
This Yin Chair is a wonderful example of Richard Nissen's commitment to creating functional yet sculptural furniture pieces. It remains a coveted collectible today, admired for its timeless design and connection to one of the most celebrated movements in modern furniture history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.01 in W x 21.66 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 16.34 in
63.5 cm W x 55 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
This pair is the most recognizable model of Danish designer and manufacturer, Svend Skipper, and a great example of the mid-century era design. Skipper only created commissioned pieces, meaning none of his designs were mass-produced.
“Model 91” features a masterfully sculpted teak base and legs. The teak tips “poke out” at the end of the upholstered armrests, which is a very characteristic design element of this model. The high wing-back offers back support, while enveloping the sitter. It also features tufted buttons arranged in a single, horizontal line, adding to the visual interest of the piece. The loose cushion on the seat provides great sitting comfort while also adding to the welcoming look. These details create a sculptural silhouette that made this model popular already in its time.
The design was created in 1956 and this particular piece was manufactured by Skipper Møbelfabrik in the 1960s. For its resemblance to Hans J. Wegner’s “Papa Bear” chair, this model is often referred to by that name, however, “Model 91” was only made upon order. Skipper’s craftsmanship and quality can be observed in every single detail, from the exposed teak arms, to the distinctive shape and level of comfort.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium light wool. 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:
31.29 in W x 34.05 in D x 38.58 in H; Seat height 15.74 in
79.5 cm W x 86.5 cm D x 98 cm H; Seat height 40 cm
Literature:
Mobilia Volume 6 #73 August 1961, edited by Paul Henningsen & Gunnar Bratvold. Published by [Snekkersten: Mobilia, 1961]
About the designer:
Svend Skipper was a Danish furniture designer and manufacturer. Skipper Møbelfabrik was founded in 1955 by the namesake and has since produced seating furniture as a Danish craft for almost 6 decades. The manufacturer still exists, and “Model 91” has been relaunched in 2011 as a response to its growing popularity and rarity.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This pair of easy chairs is an elegant and comfortable evidence of the mastery and artistry of the Danish cabinetmaker, who, together with his contemporaries, largely defined mid-20th century modern seating.
These chairs feature stunning oak frames paired with fully upholstered cushions in a striped fabric. With a timeless and sturdy design, the pair is especially successful at balancing modernity and comfort. While made of solid wood, they have an open feel both from the back, thanks to the three horizontal slats that compose and divide the backrest, and from the front, through the open arms. The design plays with geometry in a masterful way. The curved lines of the armrests are beautifully crafted and follow the seat’s angle. These curves nicely contrast with the straight lines of the frame, keeping it from appearing too rigid. Thanks to the carved details the pair has an architectural feel. Furthermore, the light fabric works beautifully with the warm brown of the oak. The shape, ergonomic construction and perfect proportions show the thought and expertise that went into the creation of these chairs. The structure is robust, yet still appears elegant and delicate through its detailing. The chairs don’t have excessive embellishments, rather, the stylish upholstery and the beauty of the oak take on a decorative role.
This pair of easy chairs is the perfect illustration of how the combination of Danish design, the work of a true cabinetmaker, and well-chosen upholstery come together to create exceptional pieces. With its classically beautiful form and charming pattern, these chairs can truly elevate any interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor marks and scratches on wood. The chairs have been re-upholstered 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:
27.95 in W x 31.1 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 22.64 in
71 cm W x 79 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Eva and Nils Koppel met while she was studying at the Danish Academy, Copenhagen. Together they studied architecture and later worked in design icon Alvar Aalto’s office. Their furniture pieces are very representative of Scandinavian design - featuring organic shapes, architectural structure, and cosy upholstery.
This pair of chairs have some of the best characteristics of Danish modern design. The cosy and stylish elements of these chairs are especially distinctive of Eva and Nils Koppel’s work. These chairs feature a tiered side profile, starting from the “wings” on top, which step down into the arms and sides of the seats. The rounded edges contribute to the soft and cosy impression of the design, which is complimented by the unique legs that appear to gently clasp the bodies. The back legs are tilted slightly to support the seats. The dark stained, subtly tapered wooden legs pair beautifully with the light coloured fabric of the upholstery. The tufted buttons arranged in three lines enhance the wing-back shape of the backs, while the pairing of materials and colours give an elegant yet understated look to this model.
The Danish design idiom was centred around warm woods, quality fabrics and gentle but robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of Danish culture. The Koppels’ exceptional architectural talent is evident even in these wing-back chairs, which are outstanding not only in the couple’s repertoire, but also among mid-century Danish chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. The chairs have 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:
28.34 in W x 30.9 in D x 39.17 in H; Seat height 17.91 in; Arm height 23.22 in
72 cm W x 78.5 cm D x 99.5 cm H; Seat height 45.5 cm; Arm height 59 cm
About the designer:
Eva Koppel, born Eva Ditlevsen (1916-2006) and Nils Adolf Koppel (1914-2009) were a Danish functionalist architect couple who characterized the post-war era and the public building of the welfare society.
Nils and Eva Koppel met during their shared lectures at the Danish Polytechnic Teaching Institute in 1935, where Eva studied mathematics and Nils studied engineering. The same year, they applied to the Academy of the Arts' School of Architecture, where they were both admitted. The year after, in 1936, they got married.
During their studies between 1938 and 1939, they worked together in Finland at Alvar Aalto's design studio. In 1940, they had their first child and the following year they both graduated from the School of Architecture. Since Nils Koppel's father was Jewish, in 1943 they had to flee because of the Jewish persecution. They fled to Finland and resumed working at Aalto's design studio. In the years following the war, the couple designed a number of single-family homes, and set up a home of their own in 1946. Initially, they erected houses for family and friends, designed wallpaper, chairs, watches, light fixtures, and other art-industrial objects.
In 1954, their joint studio won the architectural competition for the Langelinie Pavilion, which was erected in 1958 and has been preserved. The pavilion's rigorous shape, slim profiles and its design as a 'floating' box are indebted to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe's school and the international style. The couple got their first big task in 1954 via family relations: The settlement Søllerød Park. Their house design managed to preserve the scenic parkland, and is now one of the great architectural classics for this time period.
The Koppel couple has received numerous awards and honours, including: The Wood Prize 1960, the Natural Stone Prize 1966 and the Eckersberg Medal 1955. Nils Koppel was also awarded the Knud V. Engelhardt Scholarship in 1951.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Italian designer Giancarlo Piretti emerged as a leading figure in postwar furniture design, known for combining technical ingenuity with sculptural forms. As a longtime collaborator with Anonima Castelli, Piretti developed groundbreaking designs in the 1960s and 70s, many of which explored modularity and ergonomics. His works, such as the iconic “Plia” folding chair and “Plia” table, won multiple international design awards, and still find their home in museums word-wide - from Austria, to the Czech Republic, Slovenia, and the United States.
The “Alky” lounge chair - which debuted in 1970 - is among his most celebrated works and reflects the experimental spirit of the period, while maintaining a strong sense of comfort and approachability. The chairs showcase their signature curvilinear form, expertly upholstered in a soft off-white bouclé that enhances the chairs’ inviting charm. They are reminiscent of clouds, both through their flowy, plushy shape and soft fabric. The design features a continuous silhouette, from backrest to seat to base, all supported by a lightweight aluminium structure. The sled frames also rest on aluminium feet, ensuring the stability of the chairs. Their curved shape hugs the body and provides a comfortable sitting experience, further highlighting Piretti’s attention to ergonomics. The design is balanced, with the textile surfaces adding warmth, contrasting the modernist structure with a sense of softness.
These “Alky” chairs remain examples of 1970s Italian design and perfect illustrations of how form and function can harmonise effortlessly. Ideal as statement pieces in a living room, lounge, or studio, they offer timeless comfort and a sculptural presence that continues to resonate in contemporary interiors.
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 reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
26.38 in W x 32.28 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 22.05 in
67 cm W x 82 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 56 cm