Pair of Mid-Century Lounge Chairs with Metal Legs by Nino Zoncada, Italy 1950s (sold)
Pair of Mid-Century Lounge Chairs with Metal Legs by Nino Zoncada, Italy 1950s (sold)
The postwar boom years of the 1950s through to the 1960s were one of the periods of greatest influence by Italian designers. Design in the 50s paved the way to a more aesthetic approach to products as opposed to its utilitarian predecessors, resulting in exceptional pieces like these lounge chairs.
Giovanni “Nino” Zoncada was an Italian furniture designer who worked extensively designing furniture and interiors for luxury ships. In the late 1940s, Zoncada collaborated with Gio Ponti in the interior design of the cruise liners Conte Biancamano and Conte Grande. Among his most famous furniture designs are his iconic and richly upholstered lounge chairs with relatively high and curved armrests, including these models. These lounge chairs combine a luxurious fabric with a metal, brass plated base structure. The resulting look expresses Italian modernism at its core, preserving the timeless elegance that defines the country’s design. The newly available production techniques and materials like plastic and metal introduced vibrant, colourful effects instead of the traditional wood and fabrics combination used before. As such, these armchairs have a sculptural, “free” look dictated by the shape of the backs and arms. The characteristic shape of the arms set the tone of the overall look, creating dynamism. The interesting angles are also present on the seats and backs, ensuring great sitting and lounging comfort. The lower, brass plated steel structures contrast beautifully with the rich texture of the upholstery, with the stretchers following the curves of the seats. The thin, splayed legs are straight and so are the stretchers connecting the sides. This result is a greatly balanced design that utilizes straight lines just as much as it does the curved ones.
From all angles, these lounge chairs offer beautiful textures and eye-catching forms, combining Italian elegance and modern aesthetics resulting in a timeless look which is full of modern energy that will endure for generations. This is also thanks to their exceptional visual quality and uncompromising level of craftsmanship.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some stains on the metal legs. 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:
27.16 in W x 31.69 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Arm height 21.25 in
69 cm W x 80.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Arm height 54 cm
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Rach Finazzi, an Italian designer active from the late 20th century, is recognised for a distinctive approach to furniture-making that merges geometric structures with unique materials. Finazzi’s work often explores unconventional forms and material contrasts, from glass to metal and wood, resulting in pieces that command attention both as functional furniture and as sculptural statements.
This geometric dining chair is a quintessential example of Finazzi’s design ethos, the chair is characterised by a striking interplay between an angular metal framework, natural wood, and plush sheepskin. The chair rests on slender, black metal legs that intersect to create a dynamic, sculptural base, flowing into the arms. The composition feels both visually light and structurally stable. Adding to the design, the backrest is crafted from solid wood in a dramatically tapered, triangular form. The back introduces an architectural element that draws the eye upward, establishing a visual dialogue between the angular metal structure and the natural wood grain. To fully drive in the textural juxtaposition, the seat is upholstered in longhair sheepskin, adding a warm, inviting texture that contrasts beautifully with the cool, industrial feel of the metal frame and the earthy wooden backrest.
More than just seating, this dining chair functions as a sculptural piece that showcases Finazzi’s ability to harmonise disparate materials and forms. The combination of materials creates a compelling visual and tactile experience, showcasing the skill and creativity of Italian craftsmanship. Whether arranged around a dining table with other pieces or displayed as a standalone accent piece, the chair encapsulates a bold design language, merging functionality with a strong artistic presence.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seat has been reupholstered recently in a 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:
19.29 in W x 22.04 in D x 44.68 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 24.40 in
49 cm W x 56 cm D x 113.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 62 cm