Osvaldo Borsani "P40" Lounge Chair for Tecno S.p.A., Italy 1950s (sold)
































Osvaldo Borsani "P40" Lounge Chair for Tecno S.p.A., Italy 1950s (sold)
The P40, designed in 1955, is not only the most famous design of Italian architect and designer, Osvaldo Borsani, but of Italian mid-century design as well. This model is part of the most well renowned design collections around the world, including MoMA and the Center Pompidou, as a true icon of Italian design.
In 1953, together with his brother Fulgenzio, Osvaldo Borsani created his most complex project: a company idea that takes its name from the Greek 'techne' which means both art and technique. Thus, Tecno was born where furniture became a technological object enriched with mechanical components that give it versatility in terms of composition, shape and layout as demonstrated by this P40 chair. After the success of the D70 sofa at the X Triennale in 1954, Borsani worked on the idea of the mechanical joint to create an armchair with different movements able to correspond to different positions, both in the backrest and in the seat, especially for the benefit of relaxation. P40 is therefore a relax chair with moving elements, composed of a metal pedestal that supports the seat and backrest pivoted to allow all the intermediate inclinations between opening and complete folding. The leg rest is retractable and can be concealed under the seat, while the headrest is extendable and the steel and rubber armrests are flexible to facilitate sitting. The separate parts are visually enhanced by the cosy brown velour upholstery that also lets the metal parts stand out. The result is an essentially modern look that manages to stay cosy while also showcasing a design edge.
Versatile and functional with a strong personality, this lounge chair deserves its title of iconic design. With its irresistible comfort, and curves, this model represents the technological evolution of the chaise longue, the relaxation armchair symbol of the Modern Movement.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a burnt orange 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:
27.95in W x 49.6 in D x 34.25 in H; Seat height 13.38 in; Arm height 19.48 in
71 cm W x 126 cm D x 87 cm H; Seat height 34 cm; Arm height 49.5 cm
About the designer:
Osvaldo Borsani was born in Varedo, Italy in 1911. Son of Gaetano, an established furniture maker in his “Atelier di Varedo”. Sixteen-year-old Osvaldo received his first training in the family business.
In 1933, he participated in the fifth Triennale of Milan with the design for the “Minimal House”, which was awarded the silver medal. In the post-war period, after graduation from Polytechnic, he formed friendships with numerous artists like Lucio Fontana, Agenore Fabbri, Aligi Sassu, Roberto Crippa, Fausto Melotti, and Arnaldo Pomodoro, together with whom he realized important works of art in furnishing and interior architecture.
In 1953, along with his brother Fulgenzio, he founded Tecno, the great project for which he worked his whole life in order to develop standard production with reference to that of design. Its name derived from the Greek 'techne' which means both art and technique. Tecno was born: the perfect synthesis between the artisan experience of the atelier and production on a larger scale, which allows for new market horizons and greater capacity for design innovation. Tecno was born in an Italy that has left wars and misery behind it and that wanted to invent a future of serenity and optimism.
His first industrial designs were the P40 adjustable armchair (1953) and the D70 reversible seat sofa. In 1968, it was the office system Graphis (together with Eugenio Gerli and coming into vogue around the world in a million copies) thanks to which Tecno became a world-leading manufacturer in design for the office.
At the end of the sixties, Osvaldo Borsani, together with Marco Fantoni and Valeria Borsani, created the Tecno Designs Centre, which creates new products and secures for the company the supervision of large interior architectural works, the experimentation in new technologies, and the strategies and the tools of business communication. At the same time Borsani opened up the design to collective uses and to the contribution of external designers. Until his death in 1985, Osvaldo Borsani created and cultivated an attitude of mind which encouraged craftsmanship and an attention to detail and quality. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Danish Modernism can be visually described by this beautiful wing-back chair: sleek, organic and timeless. These attributes are met with high quality materials and the famous craftsmanship of the country’s cabinetmakers. This chair is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of Villy Sørensen.
From the welcoming winged body and the solid wood frame to the cosy sheepskin upholstery, this chair expresses a quality of hygge and a feeling of contentment. The distinctive shape is a result of the two “ears” that encompass the sitter. One of the most notable chair styles that embodies Scandinavian modern design is the wing-back chair. The history of this type of chair can be traced back to the 17th century when they were originally designed to provide protection from drafts in grandiose, often chilly, European homes. With high backs and "wings" on each side to shield the sitter from cold air, these chairs were originally a symbol of prestige and comfort. To balance the sculptural, upholstered body is the beautiful solid wood frame that is left exposed on the sides as it also functions as a decorative element with its geometric angles and curves. The arms and tapered legs are formed from the same piece of wood resulting in a sleek impression. The wood’s colour and smooth surface contrast brilliantly with the sheepskin’s light colour and texture. Thanks to the properties of the sheepskin, this chair provides great, soft comfort as well.
Villy Sørensen had a unique design idiom, which is clearly visible in this model: function, durability, timeless design, and perhaps above all, comfort. This traditional yet playful chair combines all of these attributes, which makes it ideal to be the stylish focal point of any space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature of the wood, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been reconditioned and has recently been reupholstered 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:
29.92 in W x 32.28 in D x 38.98 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Seat depth 22.83 in
76 cm W x 82 cm D x 99 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 58 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This “Canada” or model P110 chair was designed by Osvaldo Borsani in 1965 and manufactured by the Borsani brothers’ company, Tecno. The chair is enriched with mechanical components that give it versatility in terms of composition, shape and arrangement.
The Borsani brothers’ company, founded in 1953, had strong ideals, mainly a philosophy of quality. Just like the company’s name in Italy, this “Canada” lounge chair is unmistakable. The wooden structure serves as the base for the upholstered sections that are divided into three parts. Immediately standing out are the oversized buttons, seven on both sides, that secure the cushions in place, while also increasing the visual quality of the chair. The extraordinary heritage of craftsmanship in the treatment of materials, in the attention to detail, in the interpretation of the shape defines this chair. Thanks to the innovative language of the design, this model can fit perfectly into any interior while still standing out visually.
The “Canada” lounge chair shows the rigor of form, the quality of materials and workmanship, and the attention to the opportunities of technology that Tecno is known for. The chair is upholstered in leather, which contrasts beautifully to the peculiar body.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches on the back. The chair comes with its original upholstery or has 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:
32.28 in W x 33.46 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 22.04 in; Arm height 21.06 in
82 cm W x 85 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 56 cm; Arm height 53.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This rare "Roset" chair is a striking creation by the Danish designer duo Ole Gjerløv-Knudsen and Torben Lind, manufactured by Mogens Kold in Denmark in the early 1970s. Introduced in 1972, the “Roset” model stands out for its sculptural form and innovative construction, embodying the spirit of Danish modernism with a playful and organic twist.
The chair’s design is both functional and deeply expressive. Its unusual shape evokes the comfort of a nest, welcoming the sitter into a softly embracing form. The chair’s broad circular seat and gently curved split backrest encourage a relaxed lounging posture, creating an intimate and cocoon-like experience for the user. The feet, resembling fins, not only provide visual dynamism but also ensure stability, giving the piece a grounded yet airy presence. The body is constructed from three laminated plywood panels, precisely joined with visible brass screws that lend a subtle industrial touch while highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to structural detail. The model is upholstered in a premium wool and alpaca blend fabric, chosen for its softness, warmth, and luxurious texture. The light, tactile quality of the upholstery enhances the chair's inviting character and complements the warm natural tones and grain of the plywood shell.
The “Roset” model remains a rare piece that offers both sculptural impact and everyday warmth. It is an ideal statement chair capturing the balance between innovation, comfort, function, and aesthetics, that defines the best of Danish design from the period.
Condition:
Wear due to age and use. Some scratches and marks. Recently reupholstered in premium alpaca - wool blend fabric.
Dimensions:
35.63 in W x 31.50 in D x 23.43 in H; Seat Height 14.17 in
90.5 cm W x 80 cm D x 59.5 cm H; Seat Height 36 cm
About the designer:
Ole Gjerløv-Knudsen (1930-2009) was a Danish furniture architect. He studied at the School of Crafts, graduating in 1952 and then at the Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen until 1955. Gjerløv-Knudsen designed furniture series for both carpentry and industrial production in collaboration with fellow Danish furniture designer Torben Lind (1928-2016) from 1962.
Lind’s works showed a commitment to using the finest materials and extraordinary precision to create one-of-a-kind designs. Together, they became well-known for their light furniture in beech and plywood. The duo worked together at PP Møbler, creating furniture that became a trademark of Danish design.
During their long collaboration, Gjerløv-Knudsen and Lind designed numerous successful chair designs representing Danish mid-century modern, with special attention to outstanding comfort and ensuring long-lasting value by using quality materials. Many of their designs were produced by France & Son and Mogens Kold Møbelfabrik. The latter produced some of the most coveted furniture of the mid- 20th century. ~H.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Ole Wanscher was one of the leading figures of 20th century Danish design. Trained as an architect and later a professor at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Wanscher’s work is characterised by restraint, clarity, and a deep respect for craftsmanship. Makers like him believed that good furniture should feel appropriate in its proportions, neither excessive nor incomplete, and that belief is evident throughout his designs.
Model “1755” exemplifies this disciplined yet elegant approach. The chair’s back is composed of three gently undulating horizontal slats that introduce movement without disrupting the overall symmetry of the frame. These shaped rails provide ergonomic support while creating a subtle decorative rhythm across the backrest. The uprights are slightly tapered, lending lightness to the silhouette and preventing the form from feeling heavy. The arms extend from the back, curving forward in a subtle arc that supports the sitter while maintaining visual continuity with the backrest. Transitions and joinery are seamless and organic, demonstrating careful attention to structural flow. The legs are slender and proportioned with precision, connected by thin stretchers that reinforce stability without drawing attention away from the main lines. Every element feels considered, from the thickness of the rails to the spacing between slats, resulting in a chair that is visually calm yet structurally assured. The upholstered seat introduces a measured softness that balances the architectural clarity of the wooden frame. Its tailored form provides comfort while maintaining the light, refined character of the design.
Suitable for use at a dining table, desk, or as an occasional armchair, model “1755” reflects Wanscher’s enduring commitment to proportion, craftsmanship, and the thoughtful reinterpretation of historical furniture making within a modern context.
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 chair may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seat cushion was newly produced and upholstered 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:
24.60 in W x 26.37 in D x 33.85 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 25.19 in
62.5 cm W x 67 cm D x 86 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 64 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Ergonomic in its structure, this mid-century armchair showcases the best characteristics of post-war Italian design. These postwar boom years of the 1950s through the 1960s were a greatly influential - and experimental - period for Italian creatives. Striking in its balanced proportions and clean architectural lines, this armchair was born of careful decision making, where every curve, joint and surface was conceptualised with comfort and sculptural grace in mind.
The elegant lines of the chair create a pleasing visual balance, a result of the gently rounded back and pointed wingback crown. The silhouette, with its open construction, is comprised of an enveloping back that flows down in a curve towards the generous seat, forming a cocoon for the sitter. Creating a welcoming impression, the sheltering arms hug the person even further, adding a further layer of relaxation. The arms, slightly overturning at the ends, unfold the form of the design and emphasise its openness and welcoming spirit even further. The dark, splayed legs ensure stability, and their minimal shape allow the chair’s body to shine as the focal point. Acting as complementary elements, the tapered legs on the bottom are in harmony with the sharp peaks at the top of the backrest. Meanwhile, along the midsection, the elegant overspill of the armrests traces the sides, opening up the structure and introducing another intriguing dimension that deepens the visual presence of the piece. The armchair is full of unique design elements, but rather than working against each other, they instead unify the design through their shared aesthetic characteristics. In their own unique way, these small details are striving for the same sophisticated style. Recently upholstered in premium fabric, the chair flourishes in a beautiful, neutral colour that complements any interior.
The subtle colour of the chair, combined with its elegant form, provides a beautiful visual cohesiveness. This armchair is not just a functional sitting element, but also brings its own refined character into the atmosphere of the room, making it simultaneously both charming and practical.
Condition:
in good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair 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:
33.07 in W x 31.49 in D x 40.55 in H; Seat height 15.15 in; Seat depth 18.70 in; Arm height 21.45 in
84 cm W x 80 cm D x 103 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 47.5 cm; Arm height 54.5 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
20th century Dutch furniture design was characterised by a blend of modernist influences and a commitment to functionality. Wooden furniture from this time period often featured clean lines and a focus on the natural beauty of the wood, as seen with this armchair.
The construction of this chair is traditional and robust - it features a solid yet graceful frame, crafted from a warm, rich wood, which highlights the natural grain of the material. The arms and backrests showcase a sense of airiness. This neat detail accentuates the high level of woodworking and creates an effortless look. The arms’ angles are aligned with the seats and backs’ angles, resulting in a harmonious look while also being ergonomic, with solid support for the spine. The chair features a decorative element on the backrest that resembles an upside down tower in the middle or two towers side by side, which effortlessly increases the visual appeal. The sitting comfort is pleasant, further aided by the stability the sturdy wooden legs provide. The frame is complemented by the elegant rope seat woven tightly into the wood, with the material of the seat giving the piece a warm and cosy feel all while staying very functional. The chair’s simplicity and honest elegance makes it an exceptional piece of furniture.
Dutch furniture design wasn’t flashy but instead focused on being well-made and to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this chair exemplifies, blending functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of this design period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Minor scratches and discolouration. Due to the nature of the wood, the item may have some additional marks.
Dimensions:
18.50 in W x 18.89 in D x 36.02 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 17.32 in
47 cm W x 48 cm D x 91.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 44 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This lounge chair by Swedish designer, Gösta Jonsson, exudes quality and personality from all angles, and is the designer’s most famous model. The basic Swedish design principles are all present and upholstered in soft and stylish sheepskin.
With organic forms and harmonious proportions, this model is an excellent example of great Swedish design from the era. Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this lounge chair has a classic shape, paired with a modern edge. The generous seat and back are welcoming, with the latter curving in such an angle that the sitter is “hugged”. The large, curved backrest features tufted buttons and follows the curve of the equally generous seat, creating a harmonious look. The backside of this chair is quite striking, as it is created from a single piece stemming from the base. The sheepskin used for the upholstery is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It elevates the sheer size and shape of the chair, especially its back, beautifully. At the same time, the wood also remains in the focus, as it is the most important material in Swedish mid-century design. The solid, stained wood legs are tapered to lighten the look, but are thick enough at the top to provide adequate joinery strength.
The artisanal production quality shows throughout this chair and takes the Swedish idea of furniture that last for generations seriously. The harmony of craftsmanship, the materials and the design makes this lounge chair ideal for any interior and style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
30.7 in W x 34.64 in D x 27.95 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
78 cm W x 88 cm D x 71 cm H; Seat height 41 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
In Sweden, “svensk design” in particular operates as a set of relations linking objects, spaces, people to the cultural ideologies that motivate the persistence of a social democratically infused “way of life.” Thanks to this sentiment, the cabinetmaker of this chair put an emphasis on soft elegance and functionality, making it timeless in every sense of the word.
The Swedish design movement has exercised a wide influence on modern architecture and interior furnishings internationally since the early twentieth century. As this beautiful high-back lounge chair shows, early mid-century modern designers and cabinetmakers not only prioritised outstanding craftsmanship, but also an aesthetic quality that honours the materials and their users alike. Swedish proponents of modern design ideals were able to cultivate their principles in a climate of relative calm with the long-term persistence of crafts traditions being especially formative. This craftsmanship is apparent in this lounge chair with a sinuous body that is as artistic as it is functional. The main principles of Swedish Modernism centre around minimalism, simplicity, and functionalism. This chair achieves to follow these principles while offering plenty of visually arresting qualities, including the high, curved back and exposed, sculptural arms that claw into the upholstery. The rich texture of the bouclé fabric accentuates the expressive shape of the frame that praises the maker’s sense of proportions. The short wood legs don’t take away from the robust, cosy appearance, instead they keep the design grounded and perfectly stable while also providing contrast with the beautiful colour. The expert Swedish craftsmanship is clearly visible throughout this piece, with impeccable woodworking and construction.
This beautiful, inviting lounge chair lives up to its Swedish heritage both in terms of visual and material quality. While its aesthetic is clean and functional, it has an eye-catching look with luxurious upholstery and cross stitches that make it an ideal accent piece as well.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some mark, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
29.13 in W x 37.79 in D x 39.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Arm height 24.21 in
74 cm W x 96 cm D x 101.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Arm height 61.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This armchair and footstool exudes quality and personality from all angles. The basic Danish design principles are all present - the pair is functional, simple at its core, well-crafted, and free of unnecessary ornamentation. During the 1950s, Danish makers led the way in furniture design, with seating pieces to this day being some of the most iconic of their time, and this model is no exception.
The generous seat and back of the armchair are welcoming, with the latter curving in such an angle that the sitter is gently “hugged”. This type of backrest style is called a wingback, originally, it was created as a way to help shield a person from drafts of cold air, and to trap the heat from a fireplace. That is why wingback chairs are sometimes called fireside chairs, as it was a popular style of chair to have pulled up in front of or flanking a fireplace. The embracing back and the curved arms create a welcoming impression, while the back’s elongated corners create visual interest. The generous padded armrests add another layer of relaxation for the sitter, and the luxurious, soft sheepskin upholstery provides great comfort in the name of functionality, while also transforming the chair into a beautiful addition to any interior space. Sheepskin is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The production quality is evident throughout this pair and takes the mid-century idea of “furniture that last for generations” seriously.
The design of this armchair and footstool promotes relaxation and contentment, inviting one to sit back and enjoy a moment of peace. The understated elegance and natural tones create an alluring atmosphere, making it perfect for the purpose of evoking a hyggelig (cosy) environment in any home.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium sheepskin; the footstool is a later addition, upholstered in the same fabric as the chair. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
Chair:
34.64 in W x 35.03 in D x 38.77 in H
88 cm W x 89 cm D x 98.5 cm H
Footstool:
24.40 in W x 21.26 in D x 15.16 in H
62 cm W x 54 cm D x 38.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This smoking chair reveals how European designers approached everyday furniture with an appreciation for both craft and nature. This piece combines classic elements with a more modern, organic design. Using natural materials and traditional techniques, the resulting aesthetic is beautifully eye-catching.
The use of wood and wicker to craft this chair belongs to a tradition that valued honest workmanship and the tactile richness of natural materials - this material choice allowed for the creation of objects that feel grounded, inviting, and timeless. The richly toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The softly sculpted armrests framing the chair bring both elegance and ergonomic comfort to the overall form. The backrest is adjustable, thus allowing for optimal lounging. Woven wicker is the main highlight of the piece. The material is used to construct the seat and tall backrest. The beautifully symmetrical pattern showcases the timeless artistry of artisanal furniture. The rectangular, slim legs create a sleek structure while not abandoning sturdiness. This chair preserves the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials.
This chair brings atmosphere to a space, rather than just ornament, offering warmth through material and form. Whether placed in a rustic setting or paired with more contemporary pieces, it holds its own with quiet confidence. The beauty lies not in novelty but in the enduring clarity of thoughtful making, which is why chairs like this continue to resonate so strongly today.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
25.78 in W x 33.85 in D x 33.85 in H; Seat Height 13.77 in; Seat depth 23.62 in; Arm height 22.24 in
65.5 cm W x 86 cm D x 86 cm H; Seat Height 35 cm; Seat depth 60 cm; Arm height 56.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
The postwar boom years of the 1950s through to the 1960s were one of the periods of greatest influence of Italian designers. The models created during this period paved a way to a more aesthetical approach to products as opposed to their utilitarian predecessors, resulting in exceptional pieces like this “Hall” armchair.
This stunning piece was designed by Roberto Menghi, a renowned Italian designer who was the recipient of two Compasso d’Oro awards and two Grand Prizes at the Triennale di Milano. This piece effortlessly showcases Menghi’s design prowess and architectural precision. The design epitomises the unique blend of style, craftsmanship, and innovation that characterised Italian design in the mid-20th century. There are several features that show these different style elements starting with the fully upholstered, sculptural body and tapered metal legs. With its outward pointing armrests and the dynamic lines of the seating, the chair combines modern forms and ideals to obtain a timeless, impressive piece of furniture. Furthermore, the blue mohair fabric adds a rich and luxurious look and feel, with the deep, warm hue of the upholstery creating a sense of opulence, making it an ideal choice for an eye-catching interior. The mohair’s tone enhances the sculptural qualities of the form, contrasting the crisp, linear frame with a plush, inviting surface.
The "Hall" armchair is not only functional and comfortable but is also a statement of artistic craftsmanship, making it a perfect addition to any interior. With its timeless appeal and unique character, this chair captures the essence of Italian mid-century design, inviting admiration and comfort.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair 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:
39.37 in W x 31.10 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 22.04 in
100 cm W x 79 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 56 cm
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect and furniture maker Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for Sweden’s Nordiska Kompaniet department store from 1926 to 1938. During this time, Hjorth designed the “Sportstugemöbler” series, (which translates to “sports cabin furnishings”) a collection of wooden furniture designed for country homes. The various models in the sportstugemöbler series took their names from locations in the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and Utö.
The “Lovö” model, designed within the series of chalet furnishings, was initially launched by Nordiska Kompaniet in 1932. The series was a response to a new and growing demand for furnishings for leisure houses where the style was more informal. This chair is crafted from local pine wood, while the backrest features iron rivets. The juxtaposition between the pine and iron provides a rustic, sturdy and resilient feel, elevating the timeless look of the model. The chair combines a simple and honest form of the handcrafted style of traditional Nordic “allmoge” furniture, and the international 20th century Modernist movement. The result is a modest yet visually interesting design with a strong silhouette. The pine body is composed of a low, curved back that is slightly tilted in order to increase the sitter’s comfort - highlighting the functional nature of the chair. The seat features a loose, removable cushion, upholstered in a textural, striped fabric. Not only is the design of this model unique, but the colourful, cushion further increases the special character, ensuring remarkable charm. The design is completed by four square, straight legs, offering sturdiness.
The “Sportstugemöbler” series had a lasting influence on Hjorth’s contemporaries, inspiring other big names within Nordic design, such as Carl Malmsten. From an international perspective, this series is the forerunner of later pioneering designs, so it comes as no surprise that these “Lovö” chairs became part of modernist design history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This chair 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:
20.86 in W x 20.07 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 16.92 in
53 cm W x 51 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 43 cm
About the designer:
Axel Einar Hjorth was born in a small Swedish village named Krokek, just outside Norrköping, on March 7, 1888. At the age of 20, he moved to Stockholm to study architecture and design at the Högre Konstindustriella Skolan.
Although he never graduated, in the 1920s Hjorth started working as a furniture designer for various manufacturers, such as H. Joop & Co., Myrestedt & Stern, Jonssons, and Nordiska Kompaniet. Hjorth’s designs from this period had neoclassical features combined with Swedish Grace. This romantic national style of Sweden was elegant and refined, yet simple. The anniversary exhibition of 1923 in Gothenburg marked the breakthrough of Swedish decorative arts, and made Axel Einar Hjorth a well-respected artist. From October 1926, Hjorth became the chief designer and architect of Nordiska Kompaniet department store in Stockholm. In the 1930s, Hjorth designed a furniture collection out of pine meant for serial production known as Sportstugemöbler (furniture for holiday houses).
Hjorth’s designs, from the luxury of neoclassicism to the severity of functionalism, are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He played a significant role in the development of Swedish society as a whole, and particularly in Swedish industrial art.
Today Hjorth is often viewed as a precursor to the modern designs popularised by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Royére, Pierre Chapo, or Josef Frank. Recently, there has been a revival of appreciation for his work, showing his genius in a new light.