Carl Malmsten “Samsas” Pair of Armchairs for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1960 (sold)






























Carl Malmsten “Samsas” Pair of Armchairs for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1960 (sold)
“Samsas” is for many the most associated model with Carl Malmsten. The designer devoted his life to the renewal of traditional Swedish craftsmanship, inspired by Swedish country manors and rustic styles. In this spirit, Samsas is today regarded as the most typical of Malmsten’s furniture.
In his work, Carl Malmsten often returned to his earlier designs, which he renewed and simplified. Samsas is such a product, which, when it was designed in 1960, had its roots in a model that was almost 40 years old. The original was the armchair “Konsert”, designed for the Stockholm Concert Hall in 1923. Leó Jóhannsson, long-time senior lecturer in furniture design, has described the armchair: “Samsas has everything required in an armchair: expression, comfort with a big form, fine lines and details – and the feeling of music”. As the name suggests (to get on well together), Samsas was designed to be a part of a cosy environment, and to bring people together. This pair of armchairs is a part of a family, along with three different sofas to combine with each other. With a frame in solid pine, these armchairs have a sturdy structure that was created to last. The upholstered bodies have a welcoming design with outward curving armrests, button tufted backrests, and generous seats. The beautiful tapered, wooden legs add a modern detail that balances out the fully upholstered bodies. The light bouclé upholstery further adds to the stylish but cosy aesthetic of this pair of armchairs.
Samsas is conceived as a model for pleasant socializing and as such, and it has been beloved for over 50 years. In other words, a timeless and durable model.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium bouclé fabric.
Dimensions:
28.34 in W x 32.28 in D x 33.46 in H; Seat height 17.71 in
72 cm W x 82 cm D x 85 cm H; Seat height 45 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: 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
By the 1920s, Carl Malmsten became one of the most sought-after interior and furniture designers in all of Sweden. As a furniture maker he expressed the old, inherited forms as well as the new, bold ideas with his language of design. “Lata Greven”, Swedish for Lazy Count, is Carl Malmsten’s most successful “count chair”. With a klismos-style curved back, this model was produced at O.H. Sjögren, a manufacturer that Malmsten often worked with.
This model is a simplified version of the “Jonas Love” armchair, which Carl Malmsten designed for the New York World Fair 1939. Sweeping curves with an organic impression and utmost quality are the main characteristics that define this pair of chairs. Even as a young designer in the early 20th century, Malmsten advocated artisanal furniture design based on local materials and traditions. “Break all edges thoroughly” was a frequent instruction on his drawings and nature was his great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found in his designs. This “Lata Greven” model is no different, with round, outward curving edges on the back and arms, and an upholstered, cosy seat and back. The organicity of the design is not broken by ornamentation, instead the charming green upholstery is utilised to highlight the shape of the chairs. The chairs are supported by slim, tapered legs made of solid wood with a stunning grain.
Carl Malmsten designed a number of so called “Grevar” (Counts) between the 1930s and 1950s and they were often commissioned for special people or projects. The chairs’ manufacturer, O.H. Sjögren is a furniture factory in Tranås in Småland, and has been active for over 110 years and is thus one of the oldest active furniture manufacturing companies in Sweden. Since the 1950s, O.H. Sjögren manufactured furniture designed by Carl Malmsten, where in the 1950s and 60s, he spent a lot of time to develop his furniture designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs 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:
23.62 in W x 25.59 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 18.50 in; Arm height 25.59 in
60 cm W x 65 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 47 cm; Arm height 65 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Nordiska Kompaniet was founded in Stockholm in 1902, and to this day, it is regarded as one of the most renowned Swedish furniture manufacturers. The department store reflected modern society in different ways; it was a place where much was possible and consumption became not just a necessary everyday routine, but a lifestyle and a pleasure.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive sloping armrests. They also hold a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the supple upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. The juxtaposition of these materials creates a striking contrast. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty in order to make them as easy to use as possible. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these armchairs as well.
The overall model beautifully speaks of the zeitgeist of Scandinavia in the early-to-mid-20th century, a period characterised by a spirit of experimentation and a departure from traditional norms towards modernism. Evidently, this set is marked by its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and a bold departure from the ornate styles of the past.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned and 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:
27.55 in W x 29.13 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 30.70 in
70 cm W x 74 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 78 cm
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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
This rare pair of “Pele” lounge chairs by Finnish designer Esko Pajamies is, without a doubt, his most stunning chair design. It is seldom we see a chair model and immediately recognise it, but Pajamies managed to design such a piece. His unconventional design was strongly characterised by durability and functionality as well as insightful technical solutions.
In Finland, the 1970s saw the use of new materials like plastic, synthetics, and fibreglass being combined with advances in manufacturing technologies, allowing designers to expand their range of colours and forms in mass production. However, this lounge chair model still gives preference to natural materials, primarily to its solid oak structure. The wooden frame provides a firm base with rounded edges. Undeniably, the most eye-catching and distinctive element of this design is the way in which the seat and the back legs of the armchairs are formed by one elongated piece of wood. The ergonomic design with the bent backrest, wide armrests, and upholstered cushions make this pair of lounge chairs exceptionally comfortable. It therefore comes as no surprise, that this model first gained popularity as a TV chair for homes. Later it became a popular choice for fireplace rooms as well as public spaces, similarly to several other designs of Pajamies.
This model was manufactured by the Finnish furniture company, Lahden Lepokalusto Oy in the 1970s. The Lahti-based company has been furnishing public spaces for almost 70 years, and gained worldwide recognition through the iconic furniture designs of Professor Yrjö Kukkapuro and later, Esko Pajamies.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The cushions 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:
92 cm W x 94 cm D x 88 cm H
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
These "Berga" chairs by David Rosén for Nordiska Kompaniet reflect the refined elegance and functional clarity that defined Scandinavian modernism. As a prominent figure in Swedish furniture design, Rosén worked extensively with Nordiska Kompaniet, one of the country’s most influential department stores and producers, creating furniture pieces that embodied the ideals of quality craftsmanship, restrained form, and comfort.
This pair of chairs exude a lovely charm and robust aesthetic that is characteristic of the era. In 20th century design, the use of wood held a special significance; it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasised the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. Moreover, in a rather distinctive way, softness and tradition merge in these armchairs. While it is elemental thanks to the solid stained pine and interesting construction, the roundness and elegantly sculpted form still provide a sense of gentleness. Pine was a popular choice of wood in Swedish furniture design during the early-to-mid 20th century. Axel Einar Hjorth was another prominent figure who extensively worked with pine, he was also the head of Nordiska Kompaniet during the time of Rosén’s tenure. Hjorth greatly contributed to the burgeoning Swedish design culture, in which these influences are seen in this pair of chairs.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair of chairs with utmost care for its quality and design. The company was among the most renowned Swedish lighting manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers - and this "Berga" model is a prime example of the great success these collaborations resulted in.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.25 in W x 25.20 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 23.22 in
87 cm W x 64 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm
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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
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
These rocking chairs, born from the era's penchant for Brutalist design, manage to strike an intriguing balance between the rugged and the refined. The 1970s marked a distinctive period in design, and the Brutalist movement, characterised by its raw, unapologetic use of materials, left an indelible mark on furniture.
These rocking chairs embody the spirit of Brutalism, boasting a robust pine wood construction that conveys a sense of strength and durability. Yet, in a departure from the harsh edges often associated with Brutalist design, these chairs surprise with soft, flowing lines that gently cradle the sitter. Pine wood, the choice of material for this pair, brings its own set of advantages: renowned for its resilience, pine became a canvas for many 20th century designers to showcase the marriage of strength and grace. The natural grain of the wood, visible through a subtle finish, adds depth to the chairs, embracing the imperfections that come with time, like a visual memoir of shared moments. The essence of these rocking chairs lies not just in their design, but also in the experience they offer. Rocking chairs, with their rhythmic motion, invite contemplation and relaxation. They transform a simple seat into a haven, a place to unwind and reflect. The designer clearly understood the timeless allure of a rocking chair, choosing to augment the utilitarian aspect of seating with an inherent connection to human comfort. The upholstered seats and back cushions provide great comfort, and also a gentle contrast to the starkness of the pine wood. These cushions, rather than diminishing the Brutalist appearance, accentuate it. Softness meets strength, and the result is a tactile experience that harmonises the senses. The light, textural upholstery, carefully selected for its texture and neutrality, introduces a touch of luxury without compromising the chair's integrity.
These rocking chairs stand as visual illustrations of the era's exploration of contradictions. They are both bold and welcoming, robust and refined. This design, pairing of materials, and sheer quality make them truly special accent pieces.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium linen fabric. Normal patina, including some scratches and marks.
Dimensions:
31.29 in W x 36.81 in D x 35.62 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 22.04 in
79.5 cm W x 93.5 cm D x 90.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Arm height 56 cm
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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