Yngve Ekström Swedish Modern Easy Chairs for Swedese, Sweden 1950s (sold)
Yngve Ekström Swedish Modern Easy Chairs for Swedese, Sweden 1950s (sold)
Swedese’s founder Yngve Ekström was one of Sweden’s leading furniture designers during the 1950s and 60s. The organic and neat elegance of these chairs is typical of Ekström’s approach to furniture design, which was all about quality, innovation and craftsmanship.
“To have designed one good chair might not be a bad life’s work” the designer once said, and indeed, he did design not one, but several great chairs. These rare chairs made of pine are without a doubt among the aforementioned great chair designs. The pine structures show Ekström’s background as a wood carver, sculptor and architect. While at first glance this pair may seem blocky, the unique details make this pair a stunning representation of the Swedish designer’s craftsmanship and creativity. Firstly, the round ball caps at the end of the joining points are quite peculiar, breaking the straight lines that otherwise define the design. Secondly, the spindles comprising the backrest are also very successful at adding airiness and visual interest. The solid pine frame accentuates the smooth surfaces complemented by the upholstered seat cushion covered in a light bouclé fabric.
Yngve Ekström had a distinct personal style, which ensured that so much of his furniture retains current interest and is kept in production. With colleagues like Aalto, Mathsson, Jacobsen and Kjaerholm, Yngve Ekström was part of the post-war modern movement that made the concept “Scandinavian Modern” world-famous. His furniture is represented in many permanent collections, including the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and discolouration on the wood. The chairs have been reupholstered 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:
24.8 in W x 24.01 in D x 33.26 in H; Seat height 18.5 in
63 cm W x 61 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 47 cm
About the designer:
Yngve Ekström (June 16, 1913 in Hagafors, Småland - March 13, 1988) was a Swedish furniture designer, wood carver, sculptor and architect and an important figure in the evolution of the Scandinavian Modernism movement.
Today, Yngve Ekström is best known for the "Lamino" armchair, an ergonomic and minimalist easy chair that he designed in 1956 and which has been in continuous production ever since. In 1999, the "Lamino" was named by the influential Swedish magazine "Sköna Hems" as the ultimate Swedish furniture design of the twentieth century.
Ekström was the co-founder of the furniture manufacturer ESE-möbler (later renamed Swedese) with his brother Jerker and business partner Sven Bertil Sjöqvist. Ekström worked at Swedese for over 40 years until his death in 1988.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
In the manner of French designer Charles Dudouyt’s signature style, this pair of armchairs seamlessly meld a variety of trends thanks to the choice of materials and form. As a major figure in early 20th-century French design, Dudouyt was known for his ability to combine French elaborate classicism and more modernist sensibility. His work often celebrated the raw character of wood, combined with tactile natural fibres, resulting in furniture that feels both grounded and artful.
This pair of armchairs exemplifies the distinctive balance between strength and refined craftsmanship. The chairs feature sturdy wooden frames with a rich, dark finish that accentuates the natural grain and depth of the wood. The defining element is the bold turned spindle legs and front supports, lending a sculptural rhythm and dynamic presence to each piece. The seats and backrests are crafted with woven straw, adding an inviting, organic texture and a sense of warmth. The use of straw not only highlights traditional artisanal techniques but also offers a flexible and breathable seating solution. The wooden form is elemental, with the flat curved armrests showcasing the natural grain of the material. Each leg is skilfully turned to showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the maker.
The woodworking employed in crafting these chairs results in unique, visually interesting structures, capable of withstanding the test of time while retaining their graceful silhouette. With the combination of sculptural craftsmanship and natural materials, these pieces will infuse any space with warmth and personality, while also standing as a testament to European design traditions.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
25.59 in W x 22.64 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 13.58 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 23.23 in
65 cm W x 57.5 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 34.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm