Pair of Haagse School Armchairs, Netherlands Early 20th century (sold)

















Pair of Haagse School Armchairs, Netherlands Early 20th century (sold)
This elegant pair of armchairs embody the distinctive design principles of the Haagse School (The Hague School) movement, which emerged in the Netherlands during the early 20th century. Renowned for its blend of modernist and traditional influences, this style emphasizes clean lines, functional form, and quality craftsmanship.
The Hague School style is closely related to the Amsterdam School and the Bauhaus movement, but has more-so been influenced by Art Deco, and drew a great deal of inspiration from Berlage's rationalism, the Arts and Crafts movement, and De Stijl. As this pair showcases, the Hague School generally made use of strict and clean lines. The construction of this pair is quite traditional and robust. Each armchair features a solid yet graceful frame, crafted from rich, dark wood, which highlights the natural grain of the material. The solid wood frames recall modernist influences, such as Cubism and De Stijl in its forms and lines. The horizontal lines crafting the frames leave open spaces, emphasising the openness of the design, yet the construction of the base is grounding.
These Haagse School armchairs are not just pieces of furniture but reflections of the era's shift towards modernist ideals, embracing understated sophistication without sacrificing comfort. These chairs, with their timeless appeal, would make a distinguished addition to any interior, from classic to contemporary spaces.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs come with their original upholstery 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:
26.77 in W x 28.34 in D x 34.64 in H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 21.46 in; Arm height 24.01 in
68 cm W x 72 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 54.5 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This remarkable armchair was designed by German artist, Willi Ohler. The so-called “Worpsweder” either denote chairs made at the Worpsweder Kunsthütten (Worpsweder arts huts) in Germany, or a specific style of German chairs with solid wood frames, broad armrests, often from tall wood, with woven seats and backs. This piece features all of those characteristics.
Crafted during a time when movements like Modernism were reshaping design worldwide, this early 20th-century armchair reflect a transitional style rooted in both simplicity and elegance. This era emphasises clean lines, unique shapes, and high-quality craftsmanship to achieve timeless pieces like this one. The honey-toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The softly sculpted armrests framing the chair bring both elegance and ergonomic comfort to the overall form. Woven wicker is the main highlight of the piece. The material is used to construct the seat and tall backrest. The beautifully symmetrical pattern showcases the timeless artistry of artisanal furniture. The rectangular, slim legs create a sleek structure while not abandoning sturdiness. This chair preserves the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials.
Worpswede in Lower Saxony is famous nationwide for its long tradition as an artists' colony. Nowadays, about 130 artists and craftsmen and women live there permanently. The artists who created the so called "Worpsweder Kuentlerkolonie" were looking for the simple and original in art and life. The traditional reed and rush woven chairs of this region were greatly appreciated by the artists of the colony, and some of them were still produced around 1900-1920. They have become collectors’ pieces thanks to the craftsmanship that went into each chair’s creation.
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 materials the item has minor scratches and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.64 in W x 33.07 in D x 46.45 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 24.80 in
88 cm W x 84 cm D x 118 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 63 cm