Pair of Federico Munari (Attr.) Armchairs with Tapered Legs, Italy 1950s (sold)
Pair of Federico Munari (Attr.) Armchairs with Tapered Legs, Italy 1950s (sold)
The 1950s saw brilliant Italian designers working to create furniture of the highest quality, exploring truly modern shapes and forms. These designers experimented with new materials and construction methods but, crucially, they kept the elegance Italian design is known for. This beautiful pair of armchairs showcases how successful these experiments in modernity were.
These chairs reflect the mid-century Italian furniture style that was defined by unique design, perfect execution, and exclusivity. This delightfully eccentric pair is quite simplistic in its form, featuring a combination of round and curved shapes, and slender, tapered wooden legs. The defining feature of these chairs is their curved backrest, which creates a sense of cosy intimacy and warmth. The soft lines not only evoke a sense of inviting comfort but also serve a practical purpose: the curvature conforms to the natural contours of the human body, making them the perfect spot to engage in leisurely conversation. Mid-century modern design has a penchant for curved lines and organic forms, and these armchairs are no exception. The preference for such design elements arises from their ability to soften the angles of a room, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Still, the outline of the design is crisp, further enhanced by the earthy-toned upholstery.
Though many mid-century Italian designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today, making outstanding Italian pieces like these chairs highly sought after.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have 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:
35.63 in W x 29.13 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 15.94 in; Seat depth 18.90 in; Arm height 24.21 in
90.5 cm W x 74 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 40.5 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 61.5 cm
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, precise execution and a strong relationship with Italy’s tradition of craftsmanship. This pair of “Bergamo” lounge chairs with matching ottomans by Paolo Buffa is a testament to the distinctive character of mid-century modernism in Italy. Buffa’s design language remains coherent with contemporary developments while retaining a clear connection to traditional furniture making, combining measured proportions, refined decorative details and carefully worked wooden structures.
This pair is focused on elegant proportions, balanced compositions and a rich interplay between geometric and flowing lines. The solid wooden frames are shaped with curved upper edges, slender tapered legs and open sides. The front legs rise effortlessly to form the sweeping armrests, creating a continuous line around the upholstered seats. Two crosses on each side introduce a sharper geometric rhythm, while the backs are formed from a sequence of slender vertical and diagonal wooden elements that give the chairs a striking open appearance both when viewed from behind and from the side. Thick upholstered seat cushions are paired with distinctive round back pillows, leaving much of the wooden back structure visible and enhancing the airy character of the design. The warm, light fabric contrasts with the darker wood and softens the architectural quality of the frames. Each chair is accompanied by a matching ottoman, constructed with the same tapered legs, shaped wooden frame and generously upholstered cushion. Placed together, the ottomans extend the composition of the chairs and reinforce the dialogue between solid upholstery and finely worked wood. The crossed panels, curved armrests, slender back elements and rounded cushions gives the set a dynamic appearance while retaining the elegance inherent in Buffa’s work.
Paolo Buffa was passionate about furniture and product design, an area in which he remained faithful to a figurative repertoire rooted in classicism while embracing impulses of modernity. He was highly active within the Milanese design scene, where traditional craftsmanship and modern ideas were continually brought into dialogue. The “Bergamo” chairs capture that combination particularly well, and the presence of their matching ottomans makes the pair especially complete, creating two inviting lounge settings with a strong decorative presence from every angle.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The set has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have marks, scratches, dents and discolouration. The chair and ottoman have been reupholstered recently in premium lambswool. 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
25.59 in W x 33.66 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 16.73 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 22.83 in
65 cm W x 85.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 42.5 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 58 cm
Footstool
20.66 in W x 16.92 in D x 16.53 in H
52.5 cm W x 43 cm D x 42 cm H