Upholstered Finnish Lounge Chair and Ottoman, Finland 1950s (sold)
Upholstered Finnish Lounge Chair and Ottoman, Finland 1950s (sold)
Finnish architects and designers were driving forces not only of the Finnish functionalist movement, but also of mid-century modernism on a larger scale. Their works were noted for their functional rather than richly decorated appearance, relying instead on the quality and materials of the design.
The beloved shape of this model is reminiscent of Marta Blomstedt’s “Aulanko” and Fleming Lassen's genre-defining 'Tired Man' chair. Similarly to those iconic models, the most notable feature of this chair is the voluminous body characterized by organic, curved shapes that create a cosy and welcoming impression. The gentle lines are highlighted by the soft wool blend upholstery that uniquely covers the entire body of both the chair and of the ottoman, including the unique matching legs. The square shape of the legs tie the two pieces together visually, complementing and accentuating each other’s features. As a representation of mid-century modernist seating, there is a profound focus on comfort and cosiness, that invokes a pleasant homelike feeling. Finnish cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities, therefore this lounge chair provides support for the back and great sitting comfort.
We have added the newly produced matching, upholstered ottoman to provide additional comfort and visual interest. Its design matches the chair with its round shape and soft wool blend upholstery. Together, they form a cosy and luxurious set that exudes high-quality design and craftsmanship.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium wool blend fabric; the ottoman is a later addition, upholstered in the same fabric as the chair. 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:
27.16 in W x 35.62 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 22.04 in
87 cm W x 90.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 56 cm
Ottoman:
26.57 in W x 21.85 in D x 15.15 in H
67.5 cm W x 55.5 D x 38.5 cm H
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer, Ilmari Lappalainen, originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating, that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushions and back with five tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the soft sheepskin upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930, the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s present Laila armchairs.
Condition:
In good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the material, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:
32.67 in W x 34.64 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 17.71 in
83 cm W x 88 cm D x 87.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm