Pair of Beech and Papercord Armchairs by Frits Schlegel (Attr.), Denmark ca 1940s (sold)
Pair of Beech and Papercord Armchairs by Frits Schlegel (Attr.), Denmark ca 1940s (sold)
Frits Schlegel was a defining Danish functionalist architect and designer, and while highly successful as an architect, from the 1930s onward he also designed a number of furniture lines with inspiration from the Bauhaus movement.
This pair of armchairs stand as evidence of why many Danish architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design. The precision of the structure and the cord weaving is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, Schlegel’s focus on practicality, structural stability, and a design in favour of these principles can be observed in the straight lines and absence of excess decoration. He saw possibilities in the aesthetics of modernist design and materials, becoming one of the first architects in Denmark to experiment with concrete in architecture; the use of the underrated material of paper cord is therefore no surprise. Noteworthy for its durability, paper cord is also beloved for its functional and aesthetic qualities. This material became an important material in the Danish Modern period of the 1940s and 1950s. The woven or basket form of seat of these chairs have a tight, visually pleasing pattern in great condition. This pair of armchairs have an equally arresting beech structure that shows great craftsmanship, and would make a lovely addition to any interior.
Extremely modest and confident at the same time is how this pair of chairs can be best described. The most renowned Danish designers of the era preferred to work with traditional and natural materials, but also liked to experiment with new techniques; the resulting models - such as this pair - are Danish Modern classics.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The wood has minor scratches and discoloration.
Dimensions:
23.23 in W x 26.77 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 22.05 in; Arm height 20.47 in
59 cm W x 68 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 56 cm; Arm height 52 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