Set of Leather and Wood 'Cadett' Easy Chairs by Eric Merthen for IRE Möbel, Sweden 1960s (sold)






























Set of Leather and Wood 'Cadett' Easy Chairs by Eric Merthen for IRE Möbel, Sweden 1960s (sold)
Thanks to his innovative designs, Eric Merthen has contributed to the reputation of IRE Möbel, which is known for its high quality furniture and timeless Scandinavian design. Merthen’s designs, like this set of ‘Cadett’ easy chairs, are often inspired by Swedish nature, using materials such as wood and leather. Although little is known about his life, Eric Merthen is considered one of the most talented Swedish designers and his work for IRE Möbel has contributed to the company’s global reputation.
These chairs are a stunning composition of a dark wood frame and leather belts and strapping. There are no visible screws or joinery securing the leather to the frame, showing the outstanding artistry. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this pair exudes both elemental modern elegance and comfort, making it a timeless and stylish addition to any interior space. The sleek wood frames offer a striking contrast to the supple black leather upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Additionally, the individual rectangular black leather cushions fit snugly within the frames, creating clean lines and a sense of cohesion.
The overall aesthetic beautifully speaks of the zeitgeist of the 1960’s Scandinavia, a period characterized by a spirit of experimentation and a departure from traditional norms towards modernism. Evidently, this set embodies the essence of mid-century modern design, marked by its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and a bold departure from the ornate styles of the past.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. These chairs come with their original leather or have 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:
27.56 in W x 23.62 in D x 28.74 in H; Seat height 14.57 in; Arm height 21.65 in
70 cm W x 60 cm D x 73 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Arm height 55 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Illum Wikkelsø was a recognisable figure of Danish seating design in the post-war decades, known for creating furniture that combined sculptural silhouettes with a strong emphasis on comfort. Working throughout the 1950s and 1960s with manufacturers such as Søren Willadsen, Wikkelsø developed lounge chairs and sofas that softened the stricter geometry of earlier modernism through curved lines. His designs often relied on exposed wood, generous upholstery, and carefully balanced proportions, allowing seating to feel visually substantial without becoming heavy.
Model “110” reflects this approach through its dramatic winged silhouette and restrained material palette. The chair is upholstered in black leather that wraps continuously around the high back, seat, and armrests, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the form. The backrest rises upward into pronounced side panels that connect the wings to the armrests. The sides curve gently forward, creating a protective and enveloping shape around the sitter. These extended sides visually frame the head and shoulders. The leather surface contributes to the overall character of the piece: its subtle texture catches light differently across the curved sections, giving depth to the large upholstered planes. In contrast to the dark upholstery, the chair rests on a solid wooden base with angled legs that introduce warmth and visual lightness. The exposed wood creates a clear separation between the upholstered body and the floor.
The balance between softness and structure is central to the success of this design. The chair carries the commanding presence associated with high-back lounge seating, yet the flowing transitions between its elements prevent it from feeling rigid. Wikkelsø’s ability to merge comfort with sculptural clarity is especially evident here, making the model equally compelling as functional seating and as a statement piece within an interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The chair comes with its original leather that has developed a natural patina over time. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.93 in W x 35.04 in D x 35.44 in H; Seat height 14.57 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 21.66 in
76 cm W x 89 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 55 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Born in Utrecht in 1917, Cees Braakman spent most of his career shaping the identity of the renowned furniture manufacturer, Pastoe. He joined the company at a young age and later became its central designer and manager. Following a formative trip to the United States in 1947, where he encountered the work of Charles and Ray Eames and the innovative production methods of Herman Miller, he began developing furniture that combined modern construction techniques with a distinctly Dutch sense of restraint.
Braakman’s designs from the 1950s and 1960s are characterised by clean lines, functional clarity, and carefully balanced proportions, qualities clearly visible in this chair. The design showcases a beautiful interplay between the slender metal construction and natural materials. The black lacquered frame forms a precise architectural structure, outlining the chair with crisp lines. Rather than appearing overly industrial, however, the frame is softened by the introduction of rich cognac-coloured leather upholstery and wooden armrests. The seat and backrest are generously proportioned, creating a comfortable visual weight that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the supporting structure. The warm tone of the leather introduces depth and character, while its smooth surface accentuates the chair’s geometry. Particularly striking is the way the wooden armrests are integrated within the metal frame, lending the design an added sense of refinement.
The balance between comfort and structural clarity lies at the heart of Braakman’s work, and this armchair demonstrates that philosophy exceptionally well. Its restrained palette and clean silhouette move it past a simple a seating piece, reflecting the Dutch modernist belief that thoughtful design can elevate everyday furniture into something practical, and visually compelling.
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 item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been reupholstered in a premium leather. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
24.21 in W x 22.44 in D x 30.71 in H; Seat height 19.29 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 25.20 in
61.5 cm W x 57 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 49 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 64 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Finn Juhl is celebrated for his sculptural approach to furniture design. Rooted in the principles of modernism and influenced by the Scandinavian cultural emphasis on practicality and beauty, Juhl sought to create furniture that was both elegant and accessible. Danish design flourished in this era, embodying a timeless aesthetic that prioritised human comfort and sustainable practices, laying the foundation for its post-war international acclaim.
The “Bwana” model was produced in the 1960s by France & Son. The chair and footstool blend three main elements: craftsmanship, the clean lines of Modernism and the clear-eyed practicality of Functionalism. These elements combined with the use of exquisite materials create a piece that is both historical and modern visually. Unlike models from outside the continent, Danish furniture wasn’t flashy but rather well-made to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, its geometrically-inspired frame is constructed from a rich wood that exudes luxury. The deep shade and grain of the wood creates an impactful look while adding subtle decoration to the piece. The different tones of brown flow from the arms and form into the front legs of the armchair, creating depth and dynamism. The chair and footstool are upholstered in a green leather, adding vibrancy to any interior space.
Finn Juhl once said "One cannot create happiness with beautiful objects, but one can spoil quite a lot of happiness with bad ones", and this armchair and footstool will most definitely not spoil any happiness in the interior where they are placed.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches on the wood. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, and discolouration. These items come with their 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:
Chair:
33.66 in W x 22.83 in D x 36.02 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 21.85 in; Arm height 20.84 in
85.5 cm W x 58 cm D x 91.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 55.5 cm; Arm height 53 cm
Footstool:
25 in W x 17.51 in D x 15.15 in H
63.5 cm W x 44.5 cm D x 38.5 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
At the turn of the 20th century, Art Nouveau emerged as a reaction against historic revival styles and the mass-production brought about by the Industrial Revolution. It favoured organic lines, natural motifs, and a sense of fluidity. Across Europe, designers sought to create objects that felt alive, drawing inspiration from plants, vines, and patterns found in nature. This armchair sits firmly within that context, reflecting the period’s fascination with good craftsmanship, ornament and atmosphere.
This armchair showcases a timeless blend of organicity, simplicity and craftsmanship. Constructed from solid wood, the chair features a sturdy frame with a warm, natural finish that highlights the wood's grain and durability. Wood was the favoured material in this period for its resilience and beautiful grain pattern, thus increasing the visual depth of the chair. The seat and back are upholstered in leather, which adds beautiful texture and a traditional look, while still maintaining comfort through its natural flexibility. By being entirely constructed from natural materials, this piece maintains its classic charm typical of early 20th century furniture, while adding versatility through its unpretentious, organic character. The armrests flow downward to form the legs and feature a subtle curve, providing ergonomic support, highlighting the chair's understated elegance.
This model can be easily used as an accent chair thanks to its characteristic details, but can also complement a wide variety of interior styles with it refined and elegant style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The leather shows scratches and cracks. The left arm has a mark. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have additional imperfections and discolouration.
Dimensions:
25.20 in W x 23.62 in D x 37.40 in H; 17.72 in SH; 19.69 in SD; 28.35 in AH
64 cm W x 60 cm D x 95 cm H; 45 cm SH; 50 cm SD; 72 cm AH
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs gained recognition for their usage of traditional materials and forms like leather and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Löven” chairs was designed by Norell in 1964 with each of them being handmade in Aneby, Sweden in the same factory that Norell established himself a decade earlier. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine Swedish modern chair.
The design of these remarkable chairs carries a certain “design weight” that is the result of its understated elegance, premium materials, and the outstanding craftsmanship. Norell was known for his versatile use of wood and leather in his furniture designs that are characterised by comfort and ease and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. These “Löven” easy chairs are no exception with a design idiom centred on warm wood, buttery leather and gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being. The elements of the design that create these characteristics are the beautiful solid wood frames with raised seats and gently tilted backs composed of horizontal slats and the loose leather seat and back cushions. Leather and wood complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing the individual qualities, such as the wood’s polished curves -especially on the armrests - and the leather’s rich texture and colour. The result is an infinitely elegant and comfortable look that is unlikely to ever lose its appeal and only get more stylish with time.
With their refined elegance, these chairs produced by Möbel AB Arne Norell (today known as Norell Möbel AB) in Aneby, are truly timeless and will fit in almost any interior. The workshop was founded in 1954 by Arne Norell, and ever since its establishment, it has been a family business carrying on Norell’s design legacy. In fact, the same factory that Arne Norell built in the 1960s is still where the company exists in Sweden.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the chairs may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs are upholstered in leather with a beautiful patina. 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 29.92 in D x 29.52 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25 in
82 cm W x 76 cm D x 75 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 54 cm
Literature:
Siesing, Andreas, Svenska Möbler: Folkhemsform i ull, jakaranda, furu och bok : 1949-1970, Atlantis, Stockholm, 2015, s. 255
About the designer:
Arne Norell started his own workshop in 1954 in the town of Solna, Sweden. Thereafter, he moved to Småland and established his company Möbel AB Arne Norell, today known as Norell Möbel AB (Norell Furniture). He was known for his versatile use of wood, leather, fabric, and metal in furniture characterized by comfort and ease. Norell’s success made him a household name within the interior design-world of Europe. Several models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence.
He was to a great extent inspired by Danish design. Two examples of this influence are the lounge chair Ari and the safari chair Sirocco. Ari was awarded the British Furniture Manufacturer’s greatest award “showpiece of the year” in 1973. Many of the models he designed came into production after his death in 1971. His designs are still handcrafted by the same company today, Norell Möbel AB.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Karin Mobring was IKEA’s first female designer. Her career reached its pinnacle during her collaboration with the company, a partnership that significantly impacted not just the local, but also the global design landscape on a much larger scale.
The model “Natura” armchairs were first introduced in the 1970s and epitomise Mobring's commitment to form and function. Crafted with a blend of natural materials and Scandinavian minimalism, the chairs boast a striking yet simplistic aesthetic. The use of high-quality wood and leather not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures durability and comfort. The leather seat and backs are beautifully framed by the structure, highlighting the straight lines of the wood and its pattern as well. These armchairs stand as enduring symbols of design excellence, capturing the essence of Scandinavian minimalism.
Karin Mobring's collaboration with IKEA and the timeless appeal of her creations contribute to the enduring popularity and exclusivity of vintage IKEA design chairs, making them prized collectibles for those who appreciate the intersection of art, design history, and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have some marks and scratches. The leather shows patina and discolouration.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W × 27.95 in D × 26.38 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 19.88 in; Arm height 20.28 in
74 cm W x 71 cm D x 67 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 50.5 cm; Arm height 51.5 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