“Dordogne” style Chairs with Woven Papercord Seats and Backs, Europe ca 1960s (sold)
“Dordogne” style Chairs with Woven Papercord Seats and Backs, Europe ca 1960s (sold)
This charming pair of European dining chairs was born from a desire to create a design that was comfortable, organic, and cosy in its simplicity. The design, reminiscent of Charlotte Perriand’s famous “Dordogne” chair model, incorporates subtle, yet stunning decorative elements on a base that European mid-century designers liked to call “honest design”.
This set carries with it the same beloved modernist characteristics applied to American, Scandinavian, and French mid-century design – simple, functional – and shows the more and more beloved rustic side of European design of the era. This set’s aesthetic is defined by the thick wooden lines and the minimal structures framing the woven papercord seats and backs. The design is consciously dictated by the elemental beauty of the organic materials; the wood has a captivating grain with hues that vary between light and dark. Against the light papercord, the dark colour variation stands out even more bringing the attention to the precisely carved frames. The legs in the back are elongated allowing the backrests to be woven and stretched between them. The weaving is spectacular that is most apparent in the backs. The seats’ weaving shows the consideration for the sitter with a sturdy, ergonomic shape. The structure of the design has an airy and organic look that is further enhanced by the box stretchers reinforcing the legs’ structural stability. The overall design of this pair is reminiscent of the French brutalist pieces of the era with the additional charm provided by the expertly woven papercord backs and seats. This design element pairs beautifully with the solid wood bodies, and gives this set’s pieces their rustic and organic charm and style.
Defined by clean, organic lines, and exceptional craftsmanship, each of these chairs was created by skilled craftsmen who made sure they were durable, sturdy, and functional; while their expertise and use of high-quality wood and papercord make each piece a beautiful design heirloom on its own as well.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 19.09 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 17.51 in
49 cm W x 48.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 44.5 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Derived from the French "brut", meaning raw, Brutalism describes the architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, featuring minimalist constructions that showcase bare materials and structural elements over decorative design. It originated post–World War II, when low-cost housing and government buildings were composed of mainly raw, unrefined materials. Similarly, in furniture design, Brutalism inspired creators to follow the same look of deliberate simplicity, honesty and strength.
This armchair stands as evidence why many European architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design; the precision of the structure and the rush weaving is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, the designer’s focus was evidently on practicality, structural stability, and construction in favour of these principles. The straight lines and the absence of excess decoration are very typical of the era’s designers, who saw possibilities in the aesthetics of modernist design and materials. This beautiful chair’s simplicity and honest look combined with brutalist influences enhances the exceptional craftsmanship. The woven back and upholstered seat gives the piece an organic and cosy impression, all while staying very functional. It is perfect to bring natural charm to a minimalist space. The oak has a beautiful patina due to its age, feature that enhances even more its charm.
Its bold, unapologetic aesthetic resonates with those seeking a departure from the sleek minimalism of recent years. This armchair serves as both an homage to the past and a testament to the timeless allure of Brutalism.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item has marks, and scratches. The arms show discolouration. The seat cushion has 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:
25.19 in W x 27.95 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.62 in
64 cm W x 71 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60 cm