Swedish Upholstered Wooden Armchair with Curved Arms, Sweden ca 1940s (sold)
Swedish Upholstered Wooden Armchair with Curved Arms, Sweden ca 1940s (sold)
For mid-century Swedish designers, materials were used for their own distinct; often a piece of furniture would combine only two materials or colours – creating tension and harmony without fuss or superfluous ornament and this armchair is a perfect example of this sentiment.
Clean and pure lines define this armchair that are coupled with expert craftsmanship and delicate research into proportions, materials, and the requirements of the human body, adapting design to modern-day needs. This elegant armchair falls into the category of the so-called biomorphic mid-century, that describes the furniture that relished in organic, curved, smooth surfaces, design that was moulded into the shapes of natural occurrences, and which was a lively contrast to the more austere machine aesthetic of the Bauhaus. Adopting the trend of abandoning ornamentation to benefit the form, Swedish designers maintained the beauty and warmth inherent to traditional cabinetmaking. In consequence, this armchair has a beautiful, warm look with rounded edges and an open look. The only ornamentation is the button tufting arranged in three lines on the back. The beautifully curving wood armrests can also be considered as a form of decoration, showing off the artisan skill of the cabinetmaker. The arms attach to the body effortlessly, without any visible joinery as if it just emerged from the fabric naturally. The light colour of the textured upholstery in combination with the richly coloured, stained wood frame create warm elegance, perfect to bring a modern touch to any space. The duality of the two materials creates a flowing, self-supporting, and enticingly functional design. The combination of solid wood and high-quality upholstery is traditional in mid-century design for a good reason.
Charismatic furniture from the past that imagined a cool, uncluttered future has become very “now”. This is mainly because of the timeless aesthetic that easily complements almost any interior thanks to the visual and material quality of the design.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in 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:
26.57 in W x 30.31 in D x 34.25 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Arm height 22.63 in
67.5 cm W x 77 cm D x 87 cm H; Seat height 40 cm, Arm height 57.5 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: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
This “Clam” chair has a beloved design thanks to which it is considered by many as one of the most attractive chairs of Nordic Design. At the same time, this chair is arguably also the most mysterious piece on the Danish furniture market.
The model has a rather perplexing history, and has been attributed to several designers before, the latest being the Danish architect Phillip Arctander. However, recent research revealed that the “Clam” is the model that in fact started the story of Madsen & Schubell. Arnold Madsen designed this model in 1944 in his small basement workshop in Gothersgade, Copenhagen.
This chair has a characteristic organic shape with soft curves, perched on club-shaped beech legs. The name comes from the shape of the seat and back that together form the silhouette of an open clam. The round armrests compliment the overall round feel of the chair. The seat is slightly raised towards the front, while the back is tilted to provide great sitting comfort. The seat and back are covered in light sheepskin, adding to the soft and cosy feel of this “Clam”. Interestingly, Hans Schubell invented the special connecting piece of this chair, formed from only one piece of wood. The rest of the seat and backrest were glued to this single piece.
In 1944, the chair was already exhibited in conjunction with the presentation of the newly opened furniture store NY FORM A/S in Copenhagen, which sold the leading design of the day. In 1945, the Clam went into serial production as the first model of the new furniture company Madsen & Schubell and many well-known stores soon included Madsen & Schubell in their product range. Illums Bolighus was one of them, as were the Messen department store and the Copenhagen furniture store Nordisk Staal-og-Møbel Central. In 1953, Madsen & Schubell sold the licence of the chair to the Norwegian company Vik and Blindheim.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in light sheepskin. 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:
26.38 in W x 33.27 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Arm height 22.64 in
67 cm W x 84.5 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm
About the designer:
Henry Hans Schubell was born on February 23. 1906 in Elsinore, Denmark. After completing school, he became an apprentice cabinetmaker in Elsinore. After 5 years he finished his apprenticeship, and was awarded a medal for his work. When he turned 20, he moved to Copenhagen, where he worked for various cabinetmakers. In 1929, at the age of 23, he was employed as a foreman at the cabinetmakers Winter & Winding, where he supervised the production of furniture until 1945.
In 1944, the firm received a request from an upholsterer named Arnold Madsen, who had an idea for a chair. Madsen was having difficulties finding a cabinetmaker with the required skills to do the woodwork based on Madsen’s little plaster model. Henry Schubell succeeded in producing the wooden frame, making it possible for the chair to be put into production. Arnold Madsen was so impressed by his work that he suggested forming a partnership where Henry Schubell would design the furniture and produce the wooden frames, which Arnold Madsen would then upholster and market. The workshop was realized in the inner city of Copenhagen, and their joint venture was named “Madsen & Schubell”.
The cooperation between Henry Schubell and Arnold Madsen was so successful that they purchased a factory building on the outskirts of Copenhagen. Over the next 20 years, the company produced several successful models, most of which were designed by Henry Schubell. Some of these chairs were licensed to the Norwegian company Vik & Blindheim and to the Dutch company Bovenkamp.
The cooperation between the two ended in 1963, and by mutual agreement, Arnold Madsen established his new upholstery firm under the name “Madsen og Schubell”, in cooperation with his son, Ib Madsen. In the 1970s, Ib took over the company which still ran under the name Madsen & Schubell causing some confusion about the attribution of Madsen & Schubell models. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming armchair is unique evidence of how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. Berga Möbler, later called Berga Form, began manufacturing furniture of the highest quality in 1896.
This armchair holds all the characteristics that define the manufacturer's style: soft, organic, playful, and sophisticated. The model is slightly tilted backwards allowing for a pleasant sitting experience. The tapered wooden legs add a touch of mid-century modern flair apart from being structurally integral, while the two front legs have a precise curvature towards the end; a feature which has become a distinctive feature of Berga Möbler's designs. The rounded backrest and armrests are just some of the elements that define the elegance of the chair. Slightly inclined towards the backrest, the armrests enhance the excellent seating experience, making this piece a great choice for any contemporary living space. The back is tufted with two large buttons that allow for a friendly and welcoming appearance. The cushioning is firm yet plush, perfectly balancing comfort and support. This attention to detail ensures that the armchair is beautiful and practical for everyday use.
Crafted with precision and finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension, this armchair stands the test of time thanks to both their visual and material quality.
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:
29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 17.71 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.62 in
75 cm W x 85 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 45cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60 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: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eu
Danish Mid-Century Modern furniture reflected Scandinavian materials and craftsmanship and mixed them with a modern style, and the period from roughly 1940 through 1960 was a high point for Danish furniture makers. This set shows why.
This particular chair silhouette has been popular since the 1930s, from around the time Flemming Lassen designed the overstuffed easy chair, the “Tired Man”, for The Copenhagen Cabinetmakers’ Guild Competition in 1935. The curved and organic lines of the design create an elegant silhouette for both the chair and ottoman. The design of this chair is characterized by organic, curved shapes that create a cosy and welcoming sensation. Since the enveloping back forms the arms as well but doesn’t reach all the way to the beginning of the seat, the design is very open and appears light. The gentle lines are highlighted by the soft wool blend upholstery that uniquely covers the entire bodies of the chair and footstool, including the legs as well. As a representation of early modernist seating, there is a profound focus on comfort and cosiness, that invokes a pleasant homelike feeling. Master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities, therefore this lounge chair provides support for the back and great sitting comfort.
We have added a newly produced matching, upholstered footstool to provide additional comfort and visual interest. Its design matches the chair with its round shape and soft wool blend upholstery. Together, they form a cosy and luxurious set that exudes Danish design and craftsmanship.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium wool blend fabric; the ottoman 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
30.31 in W x 30.31 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
77 cm W x 77 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 42 cm
Footstool
27.16 in W x 22.63 in D x 14.76 in H
69 cm W x 57.5 cm D x 37.5 cm H
About the Designer:
Thepractical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.
Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects. The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.
Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognizable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in 1952 by Jørgen Høj and Poul Kjærholm for Thorald Madsen Cabinetmakers, this easy chair in ash and flag halyard is a true modernist masterpiece.
Removing everything that was not strictly necessary for its shape and function, the designers created a geometrical and transparent work, that is subdued, yet attention drawing at the same time.
The work was presented at the Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition at the Designmuseum Danmark in 1952, the only time Kjærholm participated in this event. Although the design was daring for its time, it was welcomed as a breath of fresh air at the exhibition. As a reviewer wrote at the time:⠀
"The most ‘progressive’ interior… was no doubt the one made by architects Jørgen Høj and Poul Kjærholm in collaboration with Thorald Madsen. {…} One has to admit that it provided a refreshing change from the pervading solemnity. It is the duty of all exhibitions to present experiments of this kind which are delightful to some and outrageous to others.”⠀
The work comes with its original flag halyard, and the ash frame has a beautiful, light patina.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear due to age and use. Item has some marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
25.99 in W x 20.32 in D x 23.63 in H; seat height 7.88 in
66 cm W x 77 cm D x 60 cm H; seat height 20 cm
Exhibitions:
Model presented at The Copenhagen Cabinetmakers' Guild Exhibition at Designmuseum Danmark, 1952.
Literature:
Grete Jalk: “40 Years of Danish Furniture Design”, vol. 3. p. 220–221.
The Furniture of Poul Kjaerholm: Catalogue Raisonné, Sheridan, pp. 24-25
Danish Chairs, Oda, p. 173
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Black Chaise longue with stained beech frame, commonly attributed to H.W. Klein for Bramin.
This wonderfully crafted lounge chair has a tilt function, which makes it extremely comfortable. The seat is extended in soft lines as a chaise longue to support your legs. The extension is raised slightly higher than the seat, enabling you to lay back into the chair. The hinge of the chair is in between the backrest and the wooden V-shaped frame. Tilting the seat back allows you to settle back and unwind. The armrests are upholstered in the same black vinyl and are padded for comfort. The sculpted ‘ears’ are common to a traditional wingback chair, enclosing the head in order to provide comfortable protection from drafts, and to trap the heat from a fireplace in the area where the person would be sitting.
Condition:
Wear due to age and use. Item has marks and scratches. One of the armrests has two small rips in the vinyl. This chair comes with its original vinyl 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:
29.14 in. W x 53.15 in. D x 39.38 in. H; seat height 11.81 in.
74 cm W x 135 cm D x 100 cm H; seat height 30 cm
About the attributed designer:
Although Norwegian by birth, Henry Walter (H.W.) Klein is closely associated with the Danish modern style. Klein was born in Norway in 1919 but he moved to Denmark in 1949, to study interior design at the Tekniske Skole in Frederikberg. There, he was taught by the prominent Danish designer and architect Finn Juhl. In 1952, Klein returned to Norway to start his own furniture and interiors company. His chairs, tables, and sideboards are characteristic of the postwar Danish modern aesthetic, typically involving fine woods like teak and well proportioned, well crafted forms.
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This chair is a striking example of mid-century Scandinavian design, blending natural materials with industrial elements. The chair features a robust frame constructed from solid pine, which is known for its durability and warm, organic tones. The wood's natural grain is accentuated through a light finish, showcasing the Scandinavian aesthetics' emphasis on simplicity and connection to nature. The combination of pine and iron not only reflects the practical and resourceful design ethos of the 1940s but also demonstrates a harmonious blend of organic and industrial materials, characteristic of Swedish furniture design during this period.
The chair’s shape and construction show the signs of a master cabinetmaker. The beautiful light upholstery, the wooden frame, and the traditional craft of woodworking translate the primordial beauty of nature into this modern piece. The design aims to maximize comfort while putting an emphasis on elegance and function. This is most visible in the round, welcoming body, enhanced by the light fabric of the chair's cushions. The pine slats form a curved backrest, providing ergonomic support and comfort, while the iron components add structural integrity. The armrests feature a beautiful and unique wood grain, further enhancing the natural beauty of the material.
This armchair by Åby Möbelfabrik encapsulates the timeless appeal of Scandinavian design, where form meets function in a way that feels both natural and modern. Its enduring materials and clean lines make it a versatile piece that could easily complement various interiors, from rustic to contemporary. The armchair stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and innovative design principles that defined Swedish furniture making in the mid-20th century.
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:
28.34 in W x 29.13 in D x 30.31 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
72 cm W x 74 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 42 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This upholstered armchair reflects the quiet confidence of Scandinavian design from the 1930s, a period when modern ideas were being absorbed into more traditional forms. Swedish furniture of this era often balanced restraint with comfort, favouring clear silhouettes and honest materials over ornament. Rather than chasing novelty, designers focused on proportion, usability, and longevity, creating pieces that felt modern yet familiar.
This chair sits comfortably within that moment, bridging early modernist thinking with the warmth expected in domestic interiors. The armchair is defined by its solid wooden frame, which gives structure and presence without overpowering the soft upholstery. The straight, architectural arms frame the seat and back in a way that feels deliberate and grounded, while the slightly reclined backrest invites relaxed sitting. Upholstered in a dusty pink fabric, the chair gains a subtle softness that tempers the firmness of the wood. The fabric adds depth and tactility, catching light gently and emphasizing the slightly rounded edges. The proportions are compact but generous, making the chair feel supportive without appearing heavy. Every element, from the thickness of the cushions to the clean transitions between wood and fabric, suggests careful craftsmanship and an understanding of everyday comfort.
As both a functional seating piece and a design object, this armchair works easily in a range of interiors. Its calm colour palette and balanced form make it timeless, appealing to those who value character, quality, and subtle design. This is a chair meant to be lived with, offering comfort first while quietly carrying the design language of its time into the present.
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, or discolouration. The chair has recently been reconditioned and 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:
26.18 in W x 33.66 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 20.27 in; Arm height 23.62 in
66.5 cm W x 85.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 51.5 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The mid-20th century saw brilliant designers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored modern shapes and forms. These artists experimented with new materials and construction methods. This stunning chaise longue revolves around the use of high-quality materials, comfort, and craftsmanship. It’s clean lines and angular shape is reminiscent of works by Danish designer, Arne Vodder.
This chaise blends 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 creates a piece that is both historical and modern visually. The chaise is defined by its woven seat and the patinated leather. The seat is composed of leather straps woven in a so-called basket weave pattern and stretched over the solid wood frame. Thanks to the material’s qualities, the seat is very ergonomic, adapting to the sitter’s shape. This piece combines the beauty and innovation of its era’s design movement with the classic qualities of a chaise longue. With its rhythmic motion, it invites contemplation and relaxation. This piece has the power to transform a seat into a safe haven, a place to unwind and reflect.
This chaise longue is a prime example of mid-century modern’s design ideology. The maker of this model effortlessly transformed a historical archetype into a modern, yet timeless chair. It’s sophisticated, lightweight look is defined by its signature craftsmanship, well-conceived proportions, and remarkable material choices.
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 some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
52.55 in W x 23.22 in D x 37.40 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 34.64 in
133.5 cm W x 59 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 88 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.