Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen 3-Seat Sofa for Fritz Hansen, Denmark 1940s (sold)






























Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen 3-Seat Sofa for Fritz Hansen, Denmark 1940s (sold)
Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen's significant work has been mainly carried out together with his partner, fellow Danish architect-designer, Peter Hvidt, but the designer’s earlier models -like this sofa - are widely renowned for their understated elegance and quality.
This rare sofa model was designed for the legendary manufacturer, Fritz Hansen, likely in the late 19040s before the Danish designer partnered with Peter Hvidt. While Fritz Hansen produced several of Mølgaard-Nielsen’s sofas, this elegant model is among the most recognizable ones thanks to its elementally Danish Modern aesthetic with stained beech legs, a fully upholstered body with button tufting, and gentle curvature. This sofa has a streamlined appearance, where sections flow into each other smoothly, thanks to the exquisite craftsmanship. The mustard velour upholstery enhances this effect and highlight the gentle curves of the arms- and of the backrest. The sofa is decorated with two horizontal lines of button tufting that gives depth to the design. The stained beech tapered legs pair well with the upholstery and balance out the curved edges of the body. This sofa is ideal for any space, as it utilizes its size in a smart and stylish manner. Furthermore, the form follows function principle is maintained, therefore this model creates a cosy atmosphere while offering plenty of functional surface as well. Products made by Fritz Hansen usually display characteristic Scandinavian designs, where functionality predominates aesthetics. Hence, Fritz Hansen's creations mainly show minimalistic designs, with refined lines and recurring use of wood, which is why the company became one of the most influential producers o Danish Modern furniture in the 20th century.
With its light, clear and simple style, this sofa is a stylish way to bring modernity to a space. The original, light green velour upholstery is an elegant feature that is characteristic of mid-century Scandinavian design.
SOLD
Condition:
The sofa has its original, light green velour upholstery in vintage condition. The sofa is upholstered in a premium mustard coloured velour 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:
70.86 in W x 31.49 in D x 33.46 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 24.21 in
180 cm W x 80 cm D x 85 cm H;Seat height 43 cm; Arm height 61.5 cm
About the Designer:
Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen (12 September 1907 – 21 October 1993) was a Danish architect and furniture designer. He was born in Aalborg, Denmark.
His formative years were spent in Copenhagen, studying at the Aalborg Technical School and at the Art and Crafts School of the Design Museum. From 1931 until 1934, he continued his studies in furniture design at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, under the instruction of Kaare Klint. His work, which from 1944 was carried out mainly in partnership with Peter Hvidt at the Hvidt & Mølgaard studio, can be divided into three groups: furniture and interior decoration, buildings, and consultancy on large bridge projects.
The design and architectural firm, Hvidt & Mølgaard was Copenhagen-based, and existed from 1944 until 2009. The company was a pioneering force in Danish furniture design and industrialized production in the 1950s, creating furniture that was easy to mass-produce and economic to transport. During this time, the pair created designs for Fritz Hansen, France & Søn, and Søborg Møbelfabrik. In 1950, they designed the AX Chair, which solidified their careers as industrial designers and became an icon of Danish mid-century design. It was the first Danish chair that was crafted with both a seat and back made of curved laminated wood.
From 1970, Hvidt & Mølgaard focused on architectural projects, which spanned office buildings and factories, as well as collective housing projects. They were known for their light, simple, and clear designs, which were carried out with precision. Both Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen retired in 1975, designing over 256 pieces of furniture together over the course of their careers. Their work can be found at New York’s MoMA, the National Gallery in Melbourne, and the Danish Museum of Art & Design in Copenhagen. ~H.
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Edward Wormley took the best elements from classical, historical Scandinavian and other European furniture design and translated them into a Modern vernacular. The result was furniture like this exceptional “New York” sofa - sophisticated, stylish, understated and exceptionally well-made.
Officially known as model “5316”, this sofa was originally designed for the American furniture company, Dunbar in the 1950s. This sofa version of “5316”, was made on license in Sweden by Ljungs Industrier/ DUX. Wormley's USA-based company, Dunbar, collaborated with the Swedish furniture manufacturer DUX, who presented a series of what they called "Bra Bohag", where this version was marketed as "New York" in the most expensive price category. The design stands as a timeless example of the enduring appeal of modernist aesthetics in the world of furniture design. This iconic model epitomizes the clean lines, functionality, and understated elegance that define the modernist movement. The solid wood frame holds the upholstered body effortlessly with an airy arrangement that lets the individual parts all stand out. This is mostly the result of the straight lines with rounded edges, a harmonious blend of form and function. While the design is shorn of decorative elements, the screws, the upholstery and the tufted buttons all serve as ornamentation as well. It is specifically this ability that Wormley's genius lies in: to seamlessly marry the practical with the aesthetically pleasing. The frame's precise angles and proportions give the sofa a sense of balance and proportion that is both pleasing to the eye and comfortable to the body.
The sofa's clean, straight lines and unadorned surfaces exemplify the modernist principle of minimalism, stripping away unnecessary ornamentation in favour of pure, functional design. This “New York” sofa is truly a masterpiece of modernist design, a real statement piece.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium linen 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:
90.15 in W x 31.49 in D x 30.51 in H; Seat height 18.05 in; Arm height 25.19 in
229 cm W x 80 cm D x 77.5 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Arm height 64 cm
Literature:
Henschen & Blomberg (ed), "Svenskt Möbellexikon", Förlagshuset Nordens Malmö 1961, II, p 747.
Berglund & Engdahl, "Möbelråd", Uppsala, 1961, p 71 (wrongly attributed to Alf Svensson)
About the designer:
Edward J Wormley (December 31, 1907 – November 3, 1995) was an American designer of modern furniture. In 1926, he briefly studied at the Art Institute of Chicago. Due to financial restrictions, he began work as an interior designer for Marshall Fields & Company department store. During the Depression, Wormley was introduced to the president of Dunbar Furniture Company of Berne, Indiana, who hired him to upgrade their product line.
Dunbar made a good choice, as he met immediate success with Wormley's work. In 1944 the company decided to focus strictly on Modern lines, and Edward Wormley rose to the task, incorporating European and Scandinavian innovations.
His eye for quality and the exacting craftsmanship at Dunbar made for furniture that was elegant, understated and exceptionally well-made. Wormley was never really at the forefront of Modern design. Instead, he took the best elements from classical, historical design and translated them into Modern vernacular. The result was furniture that was sophisticated, yet mainstream and very successful.
Wormley's inclusion in the Good Design Exhibitions staged by the Museum of Modern Art and the Merchandise Mart between 1950 and 1955 elevated him to a respected place alongside more cutting edge designers like Bertoia, Nelson and Eames. In 1938 MoMA launched an exhibit they called Useful Objects, in which they showcased “design intended for present-day life, in regard to usefulness, to production methods and materials and to the progressive taste of the day.”
In the wake of America’s postwar prosperity, the exhibit was later renamed Good Design and largely focused on modern furnishings. The exhibit reopened in 1950 under the name Good Design with three of Edward Wormley’s works on display: an adjustable upholstered wood armchair, a “Short John” coffee table with laminated wood legs, and a “Repartee” gray carpet.
Wormley’s inclusion in the exhibit proved that traditional forms still had a place in the modern design movement. During the exhibit’s run thirty Wormley pieces were awarded Good Design designation, cementing him as a peer among other high-profile designers of the era. Wormley understood the essential elements of Modernism but never limited himself to one ideology. His furniture represented a convergence of historical design and 20th century innovation that greatly appeals to today's collectors.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This three-seater mid-century modern sofa is a timeless statement piece. In the world of interior design, few furniture pieces captivate the imagination quite like the mid-century modern sofa. This particular sofa, with its distinctive light banana shape and luxurious aubergine-coloured velvet upholstery, stands as a prime example of the enduring allure of mid-century modern design. Every detail of this exquisite piece, from the button tufting that adorns its back to the graceful conical legs crafted from solid wood, speaks to the elegance and craftsmanship synonymous with this era.
Cabinetmakers of the mid-20th century played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of interior design. These skilled artisans dedicated their expertise to creating finely crafted, functional, and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Often rooted in European traditions of craftsmanship, cabinetmakers focused on the marriage of form and function. This sofa model, with its sinuous lines and impeccable upholstery, embodies this ethos beautifully. The mid-century modern design movement emphasized clean lines, organic forms, and a focus on the use of new materials and manufacturing techniques. The resulting designs, like this sofa, aimed to enhance the daily lives of their users by promoting both comfort and aesthetics, skilfully combining these ideals. The aubergine-coloured velvet fabric, aside from its luxurious tactile appeal, adds a rich, regal touch to any interior. The deep, warm hue of the colour creates a sense of opulence, making it an ideal choice for a statement piece. The button tufting, in addition to enhancing the sofa's comfort, also acts as a visual highlight that emphasizes its graceful curves. It is a reminder that every aspect of this piece, from its shape to its upholstery, has been meticulously considered.
The importance of a statement piece sofa in an interior cannot be overstated. It serves as the anchor, the focal point, and the conversation starter of a room. In the case of this mid-century modern piece, it not only provides a comfortable seating solution but also adds an element of sophistication and a touch of luxury to any space. Its unique silhouette, combined with the aubergine velvet, ensures that it stands out in any room, creating a striking contrast against neutral backgrounds or complementing vibrant, eclectic decor.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa is upholstered in a premium aubergine coloured velvet 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:
79.52 in W x 35.03 in D x 28.34 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Arm height 20.27 in
202 cm W x 89 cm D x 72 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Arm height 51.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Carl Malmsten devoted his life to the renewal of Swedish craftsmanship, inspired to create furniture endowed with a creative simplicity, with functionality in mind and a high technical quality. His talent to innovate and produce unique pieces is showcased in his design of the “Hemmakväll” sofa.
From 1956 onward, O.H. Sjögren's Upholstery Workshop in Tranås became one of Carl Malmsten’s key production hubs that met all of the quality standards required. Their collaboration was followed by his exhibition at the Röhsska Museum of Design and Craft in Gothenburg where he showcased, for the first time, furniture designed for serial production. One of these series was dedicated to the family home, and included the “Hemmakväll” sofa (other items in the same series are also recognisable Malmsten pieces, such as “Farmor” and “Lillasyter”). This series inspired by familiar comforts evokes a special feeling or mood, which is also reflected in how he named his designs. “Hemmakväll” translates to “Home Evening”, evoking cosiness, joy and expressing the act of a family gathering. The design of this sofa aims to maximise comfort and function, while simultaneously putting an emphasis on elegance and refinement. This is most visible in the round, welcoming body and the eye-catching parallel lines of tufted buttons, all enhanced by the luxurious fabric of the sofa. The complementary geometrical pillows are accent pieces that add visual interest through a variation of textures, colours, and shapes. The sofa’s short, pine wood legs add a modern and organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the piece.
Carl Malmsten was - and still is - one of the most famous furniture designers in Sweden, who was also active in the cultural and political sphere of the country. He had a lasting influence on Swedish and contemporary furniture design, and was known for his devotion to ‘slöjd’ (traditional Swedish craftsmanship), which is visible in every one of his models. With this sofa, the ‘slöjd’ is combined with modern elements and luxurious upholstery to create stylish pieces with longevity for generations to come.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pillows are newly produced. The sofa has been reupholstered 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:
80.3 in W x 33.1 in D x 33.3 in H; Seat height 16.1 in; Seat depth 20.9 in; Arm height 24.4 in
204 cm W x 84 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The term “Swedish Modern” was quickly established as a reinterpretation of the Modern style during the 1940s, where functionalism was replaced by a freer and more artistic ideal. Swedish Modern furniture is popular because it speaks to both our inclination towards uncluttered, tidy spaces and our desire to reside in inviting and comfortable settings.
There is a great balance in the execution of this sofa, which is achieved through the clever use of the undulating rounded edges of the upholstered body and the detail of the divot design on the front legs. The curving back and armrests are welcoming, and unmistakable of the era’s design inclinations, particularly in Sweden. The rich texture of the cozy upholstery gives the sofa a modern edge while also enhancing the generous size of the seat and back, creating a luxurious look and feel..
The short, decorated wooden legs add a modern and attractive touch, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the sofa. The masterful sense of proportions, the curved back and the soft seat cushion guarantee comfort and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered 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:
74.80 in W x 37.79 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 23.62 in
190 cm W x 96 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The mid-20th century marked a transformative period in interior design and architecture, with the rise of movements such as Scandinavian modernism forever influencing design history. This movement, rooted in minimalism and functionality, focused on creating designs that were both beautiful and practical. Influenced by a desire to merge art with everyday life, Scandinavian designers embraced clean lines, organic forms, and a deep respect for craftsmanship.
One prime example of this ethos is this 1940s sofa, which captures the essence of Swedish modernism with its graceful, curving form and understated elegance. The gently sloped backrest and arms create an inviting, soft silhouette, emphasizing comfort without compromising on style. The upholstery, in a neutral white tone, not only adds a sense of lightness to the design but also highlights the clean, minimalist lines of the piece. The soft texture of the fabric contributes to the comfort of the sofa, making it as functional as it is visually appealing. Defining the piece is the stained oak frame, which introduces warmth and a natural quality to the look. The oak’s rich finish contrasts beautifully with the light upholstery, adding depth and sophistication. The oak overlays flow along the armrests, creating a striking visual element that sets the sofa apart. The tapered legs further enhance the sofa’s elegant form, giving it a lightweight appearance that is balanced by the sturdy body.
The combination of natural materials, clean lines, and functional beauty exemplified by this piece is a testament to the lasting appeal of Scandinavian modernism. The fusion of beauty and practicality ensures that this piece remains relevant for modern living, offering both style and comfort in equal measure.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has 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:
64.56 in W x 35.82 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 18.89 cm; Arm height 25.19 in
164 cm W x 91 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 64 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Swedish design is characterised by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. The mastery of Swedish designer and architect, Bertil Fridhagen lies in creating a model that is, as its name suggests, aristocratic and minimal at the same time. With a lack of a corresponding Swedish name, 'mid-century modern' describes the attributes that were popular during the middle of the 20th century.
This sofa follows the ideals of mid-century Sweden in a very visible way: its grounded silhouette and simple form, and the superficially set tufted buttons in long rows soften the look. This three-seater sofa, which is part of Fridhagen’s “Aristokrat” line, combines elements of classical and modern design with utmost quality. The solid wood beautifully frames the upholstered body, outlining the welcoming silhouette of the sofa. The frame has a stunning curvaceous design, with an outward-curving end that breaks the otherwise square shape. The embracing body’s curve enhances the beautiful original chenille upholstery with small deep-stitched buttons. Swedish design prefers colours rooted in nature, muted tones that aren’t screaming about their presence, but still attract the eye naturally. The sofa’s yellow chenille upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. The cushions are removable and reversible, adding to the comfort of the sitter.
Bröderna Andersson, the sofa’s manufacturer is first and foremost characterised by quality, Småland craftsmanship and professional pride. At Bröderna Andersson's, the entire production chain was under one roof. From the choice of wood species to the production of the frames, and careful attention so that the last seam is in place, quality is Bröderna Andersson’s word of honour.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
75.59 in W x 32.48 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 19.48 in
192 cm W x 82.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 49.5 cm
About the Designer:
Bertil August Julius Fridhagen was born on February 16 in1905 in Norra Sandsjö parish, Jönköping county, and was a renowned Swedish architect and furniture designer.
Bertil Fridhagen grew up in Bodafors. His father was a carpenter and he also started as a carpenter at AB Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he became the student of the architect Carl Erik Ekholm. Later, he decided to further his education at Konstfack in Stockholm. In a reversed way, Fridhagen started out gaining experience in cabinetry before completing his formal education in architecture.
He returned to Bodafors in 1937, where at first, he was employed at Sandsjö Möbelfabrik (1937-39) and then became chief architect at Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he succeeded his teacher, Ekholm. He became an important figure for the success of Svenska Möbelfabrikerna and in 1964 Bertil Fridhagen's models accounted for two thirds of home furniture production, which was an extreme success. For comparison, the much more well-known designer, Carl Malmsten's models accounted for a quarter. Bertil Fridhagen's biggest sales success was the combination series “Variett”.
Fridhagen won numerous prizes at various design competitions, including in Denmark in 1954, the California State Fair in Sacramento with the Librettserien in 1956, in Italy in 1966, 1968 and 1970 and in Tennessee in 1972. He also designed buildings, but above all interiors, he is remembered for the Bodafors church. The designer is remembered for his versatile models which are beautiful examples of Swedish design ideals.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Sofas in general are considered statement pieces in any space. Scandinavian sofas, with their generous bodies, materials of the highest quality are the result of master cabinetmakers’ craftsmanship. The design of this sofa directs the eyes to the voluptuous, uniquely upholstered body, the result of the exquisite work of its maker.
Visually, this sofa represents modernism by rejecting the common design choices of styles from the past, such as heavy ornamentation and the prioritisation of form over function. The sofa’s upholstery stands out, adding to the modern elegance and cosiness of this piece. The design elements of this sofa - from the curved lines, to the dark wood and luxurious upholstery not only create an intimate gathering place, but also define the look of a room whilst maintaining the warmth and cosiness that is often associated with mid-century design. Its genius lies in the simplicity of its lines, such as with the slightly curved back which continues seamlessly down to form the curved armrests. The four solid wood legs add an organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile. The pairs of tapered legs assure great structural stability, while also enhancing the width of the sofa visually. This sofa is ideal for any space, as it utilizes its size in a smart and stylish manner. The legs’ wooden tones further allow the upholstery to shine through, and even represent a focal point of the piece.
This beautiful three-seater sofa speaks to the elegance and craftsmanship synonymous with the mid-century modern era. Its sleek silhouette, combined with the bold upholstery, ensures that it stands out in any room, creating a striking contrast against neutral backgrounds or complementing vibrant, eclectic decor. Not only this, but the use of the highest quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures the longevity of the piece.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has 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:
68.11 in W x 37.8 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 18.5 in; Seat depth 21.25 in; Arm height 24 in
173 cm W x 96 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming sofa is a unique example of how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. A functional anchor piece is all that is needed to introduce mid-century modern flair to any interior.
The Swedish perspective on cabinetmaking is exceptional, which is why the country’s cabinetmakers’ craft remains world-famous. As an essentially Swedish Modern piece, this sofa is built around the core characteristics of the style: gently rounded edges, solid wooden legs, and a generous fully upholstered body. Accordingly, this sofa has a very precise, defined outline, accentuated by the visually sectioned back. There is a great balance in the design, which is achieved through the clever use of the straight and rounded edges of the upholstered body and the short wooden legs. The curving back and armrests are welcoming, and the rich texture of the upholstery gives the sofa a modern edge, while also enhancing the generous size of the seat and back. There is something more inviting about rounded shapes, which is true for the legs as well. The splayed, dark-stained wood legs further add to the modern, cosy feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the sofa. In combination with the unadorned styles of mid-century design, this sofa brings together the best attributes of the era. The masterful sense of proportion guarantees functionality and comfort.
Swedish master cabinetmakers have been creating products that last for a lifetime and become heirlooms. Crafted with precision from solid wood, finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension, this sofa stands the test of time thanks to both its visual and material quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa is upholstered 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:
65.75 in W x 32.67 in D x 28.15 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 19.09 in; Arm height 25.59 in
167 cm W x 83 cm D x 71.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 48.5 cm; Arm height 65 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming sofa is a unique piece of evidence showing how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. The Swedish perspective on cabinetmaking is exceptional, which is why the country’s cabinetmakers’ craft remains world-famous. As a quintessentially Swedish Modern piece, this sofa is built around the core characteristics of the style: gently rounded edges, solid wooden legs, and a generous fully upholstered body.
This sofa has a solid wood frame with carefully thought out proportions. The design appears very open, which is the result of the light fabric that accentuates its curved edges. Together, these details create a welcoming design that communicates cosiness and well-being, further aided by the tufted buttons and warm wood. In combination with the unadorned styles of mid-century modern design, this sofa brings together the best attributes of the era. The four conical wood legs add an organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile. The two pairs of tapered legs assure great structural stability, while also enhancing the width of the sofa visually. Free from unnecessary ornamentation, the aesthetic of this two-seater sofa is sleek, elegant, and modern. With its curvy shape, this sofa is perfect to break the rigour of any space while keeping an elegant appearance, which is elevated by the light, textured upholstery.
Swedish master cabinetmakers have been creating products that last for a lifetime and become heirlooms naturally. Crafted with precision from solid wood, finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension as well, this sofa stands the test of time thanks to both its visual and material quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been recently reupholstered 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:
66.14 in W x 36.61 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 27.56 in
168 cm W x 93 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 70 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Swedish designer Arne Norell’s designs gained recognition for their use of traditional materials, like fabrics and wood, combined with simple and vanguard lines. This three-seater ‘Langenthal’ sofa was designed by Arne Norell in the 1960s for Norell Möbel AB, the workshop founded in 1954 by Arne Norell. Ever since its establishment, it has been a family business carrying on Norell’s design legacy, and the same factory that Arne Norell built in the 1950s is still where the company exists today in Sweden.
The design of this remarkable sofa carries a certain “design weight” that is the result of its understated elegance, premium materials, and outstanding craftsmanship. Norell was known for his versatile use of wood and leather in his furniture designs, which are characterised by comfort and ease, and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. This ‘Langenthal’ sofa is no exception, with a design ethos centered on its linear characteristics, stylish upholstery, and the subtly curved edges offering gentle yet robust support for the spine. The tightly fitted upholstery and wood frame complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing each other’s individual qualities, such as the wooden legs’ distinctive lines and the fabric’s rich texture. The result is an infinitely elegant and comfortable look that is unlikely to ever lose its appeal.
Norell began his journey as a furniture designer in the 1950s, becoming renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend comfort and aesthetics through innovative experimentation. During the 1960s, Swedish furniture design witnessed a transformative period marked by a departure from ornate and heavy styles to more streamlined, minimalist forms. Arne Norell played a pivotal role in shaping this evolution, embracing a modernist ethos while staying true to the principles of excellent craftsmanship and quality materials. His designs, including the ‘Langenthal’ model, are celebrated for their timeless appeal, functional elegance and style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor stains and marks. This sofa comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:
81.89 in W x 34.25 in D x 30.51 in H; Seat height 19.09 in; Seat depth 20.87 in; Arm height 18.50 in
208 cm W x 87 cm D x 77.5 cm H; Seat height 48.5 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 47 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Sweden contributed to the progression of form and function in its own way based on long-standing traditions, natural resources, and the critical, yet often coincidental, availability of creative genius. Folke Jansson was certainly one of the latter, designing unique forms with an artistic touch.
Jansson is a designer who is difficult to define, being the creator of daily objects which are far from the organic forms of Alvar Aalto, and yet not aiming for the minimalism of Arne Jacobsen or Poul Kjaerholm. His experimentation has led him to play both with the free forms embedded into materials, and with the geometric shapes superimposed on them. This “Tellus” sofa is a beautiful example of this combination, with a modern appearance that is still very much Swedish at its core. Swedish Modern means natural form and honest treatment of materials. As such, this sofa has a welcoming, open design with a shell-like body and organic, tapered legs. While the body embraces the sitters, the edges curve outwards creating a rim along the back and arms. This curve continues on the bottom as well, framing the seat cushion visually. In the absence of ornamentation, the solid beech legs and the spheric brass “feet” on them stand out. Thanks to the interesting and stylish fabric, the upholstery can be considered the main decorative element, with its light colour highlighting the curves.
Swedish Modern means aesthetically sound goods, resulting from close cooperation of artist and manufacturer. Folke Jansson wanted to make the prototype of an armchair for himself, which turned to be too complex for him. AB Wincrantz materialized his idea and the product had notable success. From then on, Jansson started designing furniture for the firm, including this stunning “Tellus” sofa in 1956.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered 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:
63.77 in W x 32.28 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 24.01 in
162 cm W x 82 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 61 cm
About the Designer:
Multitalented artist, sculptor, painter, ceramist, Folke Jansson (1920-2017) is one of the representatives of Swedish design. At first, he was primarily recognized for his work as a painter, sculptor, and engraver throughout the 1940s, when he established his ceramic studio in Köping.
Folke Jansson turned towards design when he had the idea to make his own chair, but found it too difficult to make. He asked for the assistance of the Wincrantz Company that started shaping his prototype with metal and papier-mâché which gave birth to the tripod chair, “Arabesk”. He exhibited the model in 1955 at the Göteborg Furniture Fair in Sweden with SM Wincrantz. This event and the success of the Arabesk was the starting point of a long collaboration between the designer and the firm. Jansson began designing furniture for the company and continued to experiment with free forms and geometric shapes.
Nowadays, his work is represented in museums around Sweden and internationally as well, such as at the Vitra Design Museum in Germany that is among the world's leading museums of design.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This rare sofa model was designed by Ingvar Stockum in 1965 for Futura Möbler, but was only in production for two years before it was discontinued as a result of high production costs. The design embodies the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic characteristic of the mid-century era, while also incorporating elements that ensure both comfort and style. Its silhouette is sleek and sophisticated, with a low profile that exudes a contemporary feel.
The designer’s fine sense of proportion, line tension and balance between the surfaces, and how skillfully he incorporated the heritage of traditional design, is evident in this sofa. The frame is constructed from wood, which offers durability and stability, while the generous cushioning ensures a comfortable seating experience. Throughout the 20th century, solid wood had been the most important furniture material in Europe. This is especially true for the mid-century, during which natural wood was a staple material to enhance both the structural and visual aspect of furniture, as is the case with this three-seater sofa. The striped upholstery complements the minimalist design and allows the sofa to blend seamlessly into various interior settings. The attention to detail in Stockum's design is evident in the well-proportioned structure and thoughtful use of materials. This piece not only reflects the craftsmanship and design ethos of the 1960s Scandinavian movement, but also serves as a timeless addition to any modern living space, combining form and function with enduring style.
Design-wise, this sofa is in the vein of Scandinavian modernism, with simplicity and functionality, while also showcasing the subtle details and quality mid-century design is known and appreciated for.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered 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:
78.74 in W x 31.30 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 16.14 cm; Seat depth 25.20 in; Arm height 23.23 in
200 cm W x 79.5 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 64 cm; Arm height 59 cm