Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs with Woven Paper Cord Seats, Italy 1950s (sold)

Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs with Woven Paper Cord Seats, Italy 1950s (sold)

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This pair of armchairs stands as evidence why Italian design looked back to organic forms during the 1970s. While many early 1970s furniture designs took cues from the Art Deco shapes and forms, a more understated style also became desired bringing back traditional craftsmanship and natural materials.

These chairs preserve the hand made quality of traditional craftsmanship that was highly prized by mid-century craftsmen. While appearing perfectly symmetrical at first glance, the chairs show slight asymmetry that can be traced in the distinctive cross bars comprising the backs. The rhombuses created by these crosses set the aesthetic of the design, with numerous features that show off the handmade quality and charm. The slightly tapered backs’ lowest bar is aligned with the sculptural arms, while the splayed, elongated back legs comprise the backs. These details show the great consideration and craftsmanship that define the structures. What sets Italian mid-century furniture pieces apart from the rest of the world is that it in Italy good design was generally being produced by and for the upper class. Though the advent of new materials like plastic, foam, and fibreglass revolutionized the production process, Italian designers still valued craft over industrialization. This is further attested by the expertly woven paper cord seats with a beautiful pattern that stands out against the dark frames. From the gently curved and widening armrests to the stretchers between the legs, the consideration for sitting comfort and stability is evident, assuring that these pieces will stand the test of time not only aesthetically, but structurally as well.

The precision of the structures and the cord weaving is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. The Italian designer of these armchairs clearly prized the marriage of form and function. Young designers still look to the mid-century masters for inspiration, which should come as no surprise looking at these chairs.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wood has some small marks and scratches.

Dimensions:

31.88 in W x 24.01 in D x 44.48 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Arm height 21.65 in

81 cm W x 61 cm D x 113 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Arm height 55 cm

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs 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 often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.

Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. 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 for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.

The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. 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 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in

49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm

Six Mid-Century Stools with Woven Seats in the manner of Audoux-Minet, France 1950s

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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur

This beautiful set of six stools are crafted in the manner of French design duo Audoux-Minet. Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet worked together during the mid-20th century. The duo are known for their innovative use of natural, sustainable materials, including rope, wicker, and bamboo. Their work was heavily influenced by the Modernist movement, which sought to create functional and streamlined designs that were accessible to a wider audience.

Like in Scandinavia, there was an early emphasis on wood in most European mid-century design as it connected everyday objects to nature. This set of six is a perfect example of this sentiment, and the visual benefits of an understated, organic design. The high quality wicker makes these pieces outstanding examples of woven furniture. They feature a fairly traditional shape with rounded edges and an airy feel. The straightforward shape highlights the understated beauty of the materials, allowing the beautiful woven pattern and the grain of the wood to stand out. The seats are set on three splayed club feet, stained in a rich colour lending a more dramatic presence to the set. The tripod base is ideal for ensuring the sturdiness needed for a classic piece of furniture, even more so when paired with the T stretcher placed between the legs. Being functional as well as aesthetically pleasing, these stools are a great addition to set the tone of a space. The design is strong but subtle, with expert wickerwork thanks to which it can add depth as well as functionality to a space.

The interplay of a simple structure and refined detailing evokes a sense of harmony, aligning with the era’s focus on blending beauty with utility. The organic design makes this set stand out with an elemental edge. The colour palette further allows them to easily adapt to almost any interior to either complement a space, or to pop as accent pieces.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The stools have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items have minor scratches and dents, and may have additional marks or discolouration.

Dimensions:

15.35 in W × 13.39 in D × 17.72 in H

39 cm W x 34 cm D x 45 cm H

Rattan "Canton" Chair by Kay Fisker for Robert Wengler, Denmark ca 1960s

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

While Kay Fisker is considered a leading exponent of Danish Functionalism, his designs show why he was also a great influence on the Danish housing culture. This model was famously brought to Denmark from China by Fisker and there manufactured by Robert Wengler.

Having trained architects and designers such as Finn Juhl, Kay Fisker designed his furniture pieces with the greatest architectural precision and quality. This “Canton” is a one-of-a-kind design, with an immediately recognisable frame and wickerwork. The masterfully woven cane gives this chair an airy look, complimented by the loose, upholstered seat cushion that adds comfort and cosiness to complement the frame. From every angle, this chair is visually arresting; from the front to the sides and back, the curves and geometric lines provide plenty of visual interest. This chair has a distinct designer edge, with clear signs of a skilled architect. The straight lines are mainly in service of the structural stability, while the lower panel in the front are the creation of an equally skilled designer. The back is especially creative, as it flows down to form the armrests and then further down to the legs, creating balance between the curved and straight lines. Fisker, like many of his Danish contemporaries was highly skilled both as an architect and as a furniture designer, and the “Canton” is perhaps the best evidence of that.

The manufacturer, Robert Wengler was a German craftsman who specialised in wicker furniture, and was appointed as a wicker maker to the Danish Crown in 1914. He was a pioneer in working with rattan in the early 20th century and became the most skillful wicker-maker in Denmark.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the metal, the armchair may have minor marks and discolouration. The chair has recently been reupholstered in 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:

34.25 in W x 37.40 in D x 39.17 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 21.65 in; Arm Height 23.42 in

87 cm W x 95 cm D x 99.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 55 cm; Arm Height 59.5 cm

Pair of Armchairs with Upholstered Seats in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, Europe First Half of the 20th Century

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

This pair of armchairs is designed in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, one of the most distinctive figures in French decorative arts of the interwar period. Dudouyt’s work is often celebrated for its rustic charm, and masterful handling of wood, bridging tradition with the evolving aesthetics of Art Deco and modern design.

Impressive in its simplicity, this pair carries with it the beloved modernist characteristics of simplicity and functionality yet shows the rustic side of European design of the era. The chairs feature sturdy wooden frames with a rich, dark finish that accentuates the natural grain and depth of the wood. The meticulous craftsmanship of the wood’s joinery further enhances the chairs' allure; impeccably constructed with no visible screws, the seamless connections speak volumes about the artisan's dedication to precision and quality. The absence of visible hardware not only contributes to the chairs' aesthetic purity but also underscores the skilled craftsmanship that went into their creation. The grounded stance gives the chairs a quiet strength, while the broad seats invite relaxed, informal lounging. Upholstered in a textured beige fabric, the cushions pair a tactile, inviting surface with the clean lines of the wood and wicker base, achieving a compelling balance between warmth and restraint. The combination of materials and finishes results in visually appealing pieces while adding warmth and comfort to the overall design. The dualism within these chairs is amazing: they can fulfill their functional purpose in an interior while also achieving their aesthetic role.

The essence of early 20th century French design is beautifully captured by this pair of armchairs. Functional yet sculptural, rustic yet refined, they stand as enduring testaments of the striking balance only master woodworkers are able to create.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolourlation. The cushions have recently been 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:

24.02 in W × 23.62 in D × 38.58 in H; Seat height 16.34 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 22.83 in

61 cm W x 60 cm D x 98 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 58 cm