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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

The mid-20th century saw brilliant Danish designers and cabinetmakers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored modern shapes and forms. Skilled cabinetmakers produced quality furniture in relatively small quantities, while architects and designers increasingly worked with them to refine established furniture types and give greater attention to construction.

This Danish armchair is built from a clearly exposed wooden frame, with upholstered elements forming the seat and backrest. The sides are particularly distinctive: beneath each armrest, three horizontal rails span the distance of the sides, creating an open, ladder-like structure. The construction uses both wood and negative space to create the appearance of enveloping arms that contribute to the chair’s unique look. At the same time, this horizontal arrangement keeps the sides considerably lighter than they would appear as solid panels. Four straight legs support the body, continuing upward to form the supports for the armrests. While the sides create the visual impact, the upholstered seat and back ensure comfort. The muted upholstery contrasts with the warm wood without obscuring any of the chair’s structural elements. Each element of this piece comes together to give a simple chair a surprisingly substantial framework.

The exposed joints, repeated side rails and separation marriage of materials make the chair immediately charming. Rather than hiding its frame, the design uses the frame itself as its principal visual feature - an approach consistent with the attention to workmanship and material construction found within the Danish cabinetmaking tradition.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has minor marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration. The chair 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:

23.03 in W x 19.68 in D x 25.59 in H; Seat height 4.96 in; Seat depth 14.57 in; Arm height 24.80 in

58.5 cm W x 50 cm D x 65 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 37 cm; Arm height 63 cm

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

The mid-20th century was a transformative era for design throughout Europe. Around this period, furniture began blending the streamlined elegance of modernism with the inviting charm of skilled craftsmanship. This period celebrated functionality, comfort, and organic forms by creating pieces that were as practical as they were beautiful, like this armchair.

Works from this era embraced soft curves and beautiful textures, perfectly showcased by this piece. This armchair encapsulates the mid-century modern ethos, standing as a testament of the era’s focus on human-centred design and timeless versatility. The piece features harmonious, seamless curves, breaking the classic angularity of most armchairs, while evoking natural fluidity, through material and colour. The frame is quite distinctive even beyond its curved arms. The shape and construction show the signs of a master cabinetmaker as the chair has an almost sculptural look. The backrest is visually “unattached” to the seat which creates an impression of weightlessness. The piece has an overall flow to it which adds to the visual interest. The light fabric adds to the stylish look as well, as it highlights the wood’s gorgeous colour and pattern. European designers often believed that a chair should always be comfortable to sit on and beautiful to look at from all sides and angles and this piece is evidence of that.

Unlike designs from outside the continent, European furniture wasn’t flashy but designed to be well-made and to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this armchair exemplifies, blending functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of modern design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has minor marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration. The chair 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:

24.61 in W × 25.98 in D × 34.65 in H; Seat Height 15.75 in; Seat Depth 21.26 in; Arm Height 24.02 in

62.5 cm W x 66 D x 88 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat Depth 54 cm; Arm Height 61 cm

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

The 1950s and 1960s saw brilliant Italian designers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored truly modern shapes and forms. These designers experimented with new materials and construction methods but, crucially, they kept the elegance inherent in Italian design.

These armchairs were crafted in the manner of Paolo Buffa, an impactful designer who made his mark in the Italian mid-century modern style alongside other renowned creators such as Gio Ponti. Gio Ponti and Paolo Buffa’s influence is clearly visible in these chairs. This pair with the upholstered bodies and polished wooden arms show the general mid-century modern characteristics with an ergonomic and functional design. The characteristic shape of the arms sets the tone of the overall look, creating dynamism. The seats are slightly raised, and the backs tilted, creating an angle that supports the sitter and the lounging experience. The overall design is focused on elegant and measured proportions, balanced compositions, and refined décor elements including the materials. From all angles, these chairs offer beautiful textures and eye-catching forms, combining Italian elegance and modern aesthetics to create a timeless look which is full of modern energy that will endure for generations. This is also thanks to the exceptional visual quality and uncompromising level of craftsmanship.

These chairs encapsulate the essence of Italian mid-century modern design, marrying uniting sophistication with artistry. They are a testament to the enduring allure of this design era, where form meets function, and beauty is eternally intertwined with utility. Whether placed in a contemporary, or a retro-inspired space, this pair is a timeless statement piece.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:

22.44 in W x 32.67 in D x 30.9 in H; Seat Height 15.35 in; Seat Depth 21.06 in; Arm Height 23.81 in

57 cm W x 83 cm D x 78.5 cm H; Seat Height 39 cm; Seat Depth 53.5 cm; Arm Height 60.5 cm

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

The 1950s were a transformative era for design throughout Europe. Around this period, furniture began blending the streamlined elegance of modernism with the inviting charm of skilled craftsmanship. This decade celebrated functionality, comfort, and organic forms by creating pieces that were as practical as they were beautiful.

Furniture from the 1950s embraced soft curves and beautiful textures, perfectly showcased by this lounge chair that was crafted in the manner of Jean Royère. The ovoid shape creates an inviting and open look, which is enhanced by the soft upholstery that is undoubtedly its main visual feature. The combination of solid wood and high-quality upholstery is traditional in mid-century design for good reason; the two materials complement each other by highlighting their unique qualities. This chair has the power to transform a seat into a safe haven, a place to unwind and reflect. The designer clearly understood the comfortable allure of an ovoid shape. Moreover, this lounge chair is the perfect illustration of how the mixture of craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and luxurious upholstery create exceptional pieces.

A true representation of 20th-century European design, this lounge chair reflects the period's focus on practicality combined with artistic refinement. Ideal for both formal and casual settings, this chair can provide a perfect balance of elegance and comfort, making it an excellent addition to any interior setting

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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The lounge chair 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:

31.88 in W x 27.95 in D x 27.16 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Seat depth 18.11 in

81 cm W x 71 cm D x 69 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Seat depth 46 cm

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

French mid-century seating frequently combined elements of regional craftsmanship with the cleaner lines associated with modernist furniture. These chairs are exemplary of the main ideals of mid-century modernism, characterised by clean, simple lines, honest use of materials, and a lack of unnecessary decorative embellishments. Instead, the focus is on craftsmanship and clever design.

The pair, crafted in the manner of Jacques Lardin, is confident yet discreet, with clean junctions and honest detailing of the joinery. Chairs are often considered especially revealing of a designer's skill because of the strict limits placed on their form by the demands of the human body. With these armchairs, the designer arrived at a clearly-structured solution in which a high degree of coherence is maintained while the chairs appear visually light and open. The warm tone of the wood highlights the natural grain, adding visual depth and character to the clean, architectural structure. Upholstered in off-white fabric, the chairs gain their quiet luxury through material rather than embellishment. Together, the wood and fabric establish a dialogue between texture and form: one smooth, one tactile, both grounded in natural beauty. They function effortlessly as statement pieces while remaining practical for everyday use. Timeless in form and character, the pair offers an expression of 1940s craftsmanship that fits with ease into both modern and classic interiors.

Though many mid-century French designers may not have the same 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 pieces like these chairs highly sought after.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, some marks and scratches are present. The items have 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:

19.88 in W x 25.59 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 18.89 in; Seat depth 18.50 in; Arm height 24.80 in

50.5 cm W x 65 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 48 cm; Seat depth 47 cm; Arm height 63 cm

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

The dark wood, the beautiful upholstery, and timeless design in the manner of Erik Bertil Karlén make this rare easy chair a beautiful representation of Swedish mid-century modern design history.

For this model, nature was evidently a great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found. With a tremendous sense of proportion, this chair model is very comfortable and fulfils its task to “serve well” and last for lifetimes. Without any ornamentation, the focus here is on the round, flowing lines of the body and its upholstery. The design has the wingback look with sides that embrace the sitter in a cosy way. On the upper end, the “wings” curve outward, which opens up the design. What makes this model special is how the back and seat form one unit both visually and structurally. This shell-like form has a masterful curve that follows the human body’s shape therefore the chair is very ergonomic. The dark, wooden tapered legs are connected by stretchers on the sides and highlight the body with their understated look. The light upholstery with appealing button tufting provides an elegant look with its textured look and a cosy sitting experience thanks to its softness.

Swedish Modern design is a distinctive style that represents a design philosophy, guided by functionality, simplicity and clean lines. The design of this model is in favour of the user, maintaining the focus on authentic simplicity.

Condition:

In very 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:

28.14 in W x 28.74in D x 33.26 in H; Seat height 16.14 in

71.5 cm W x 73 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm

Literature:

Form: Svenska slöjdföreningens tidskrift, Svenska slöjdföreningen, Stockholm, 1943, p. 87.
Hedqvist, Hedvig & Björk, Christian, "Swedish Modern : En historia om modernismens yttringar i Sverige genom design, inredning och formgivning", Orosdi-Back, 2018, p. 228-229.

About the designer:

Erik Bertil Karlén was born on February 22, 1912 in Sundbyberg, Sweden. He was a Swedish architect and designer. His architecture characterized many areas of Stockholm’s suburbs from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

After his training as an architect at KTH in the 1930s, Karlén got a job as an architect at Fortifikationsstyrelsen's Kasernbyrå in 1940. One of his major works at this time was designing the buildings for Svea Livgarde in Sörentorp, Solna municipality, which was completed in 1946. He gave the buildings a simple but careful architectural style using predominantly red brick as the facade material. Some had brick in combination with dark-glazed wood panels.

As many of his contemporary Scandinavian architects, Karlén also designed furniture, mostly seating models. His designs however, remain very rare to this day.

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

Art Deco, the glamorous and influential design movement that emerged in France during the early 20th century, left an indelible mark on the world of furniture design. Characterised by its bold geometric shapes, rich materials, and glamorous aesthetics, Art Deco transformed the way we perceive interior spaces. It was a testament to the fusion of form and function, and this ethos is beautifully exemplified in this pair of armchairs.

This pair demonstrates a confident silhouette in which every structural element contributes to the overall design. The chairs are built on substantial plinth bases that anchor the composition, while the upholstered seats and backrests provide comfort. Their defining feature is the sweeping curved wooden supports that rise from the base to form the armrests, creating a continuous structural line that contrasts with the strong angles of the back panel and base. This elegant curve introduces movement to the otherwise geometric design and highlights the craftsmanship required to shape the wood. The armrests are slender and smooth, preserving the visual lightness of the upper section despite the generous forms. Wooden veneers wrap the body, the warm grain complementing the muted olive upholstery with its soft texture. Viewed from the side, the combination of the curved supports, straight back panel, and block-like base creates a layered profile that is both sculptural and highly functional.

Comfort and craftsmanship are equally central to the design of this pair. They possess the quiet confidence characteristic of European Art Deco furniture, making them equally suited to vintage interiors and contemporary spaces that appreciate timeless design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:

28.14 in W x 34.05 in D x 34.84 in H; Seat height 17.91 in; Seat depth 21.85 in; Arm height 23.81 in

71.5 cm W x 86.5 cm D x 88.5 cm H; Seat height 45.5 cm; Seat depth 55.5 cm; Arm height 60.5 cm

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

Art Deco furniture combined luxurious materials with bold architectural forms, favouring strong silhouettes. Seating from the period often emphasised generous proportions and solid construction, creating pieces that conveyed both permanence and comfort. Club chairs became one of the movement's defining furniture types, pairing deep upholstered seats with expressive frames that reflected the era's fascination with geometry and craftsmanship.

This pair or armchairs is distinguished by their bold oak frames, the broad panelled sides form the armrests and give the chairs an imposing presence. The thick timber construction contrasts beautifully with the upholstery, creating a balance between visual weight and inviting comfort. The wood constructing the frame not only showcase a beautiful natural grain, but is also durable and resistant, sure to maintain the look and functionality for generations. Still, arguably the most striking aspect of this pair is the natural deer hide that covers the seat and back cushions. The distinctive white spotting makes each chair unique and introduces an organic counterpoint to the disciplined geometry of the frame. The warm brown tones of the hide complement the rich grain of the wood, while the exposed timber surfaces allow the quality of the wood to remain a central feature of the design, both in perfect balance. Slightly recessed plinth-style bases visually ground the chairs, which enhance the architectural character without adding unnecessary detail.

Every element is carefully designed, allowing the strong construction and exceptional materials to define the overall expression. They exemplify the Art Deco interest in honest materials and forms, offering comfortable seating while making a strong architectural statement within an interior.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have recently been reupholstered in premium deer hide. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

29.13 in W x 33.46 in D x 27.17 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 21.46 in; Arm height 23.03 in

74 cm W x 85 cm D x 69 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 54.5 cm; Arm height 58.5 cm

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

It was in Denmark that Modernism reigned between the 1920s and 1960s and produced some of the most iconic pieces of furniture to this day. The Danish modernist movement was shaped by two influences. The first was the German Bauhaus; from it, Danish Modernism adopted the trend towards functionalism and this is why one of the hallmarks of Danish furniture is its simplicity. The second was an even earlier influence found in the Funkis style, an aesthetic based on softer lines and rounded shapes.

This beautifully crafted sofa features impeccable edges, sleek minimalism, and subtle curves. The quality of the design is matched by the outstanding workmanship of the maker. The lower wooden frame of this sofa offers a striking contrast to the supple black leather upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Its gently flared upholstered arms give the piece a graceful, almost embracing profile, while the deep seat promises true comfort. Throughout the 20th century, solid wood had been the most important furniture material in Scandinavia. This is especially true for the mid-century, during which natural wood was a staple material to enhance both the structural and visual aspect of furniture, as is the case with this three-seater sofa. This piece not only reflects the craftsmanship and design ethos of the 1960s Danish design movement, but also serves as a timeless addition to any modern living space, combining form and function with enduring style. Unlike other designs, Danish products weren’t flashy but rather made to be of high quality and fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. Moreover, Danish makers were of the firm belief that beautiful and functional objects should be accessible to everyone.

As a whole, this sofa carries a calm, understated beauty that fits seamlessly into both traditional and contemporary settings. It speaks to the Danish approach to living, where simplicity is enriched by craftsmanship and comfort. It is a reminder of why mid-century Danish design endures: its ability to balance refinement and warmth in a way that still resonates today.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The sofa comes with its original upholstery, we advise reupholstery. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

70.86 in W x 31.69 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 18.7 in; Seat depth 18.89 in; Arm height 22.63 in

180 cm W x 80.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 47.5; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm

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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur

This elegant armchair pair by Dutch designer, Bas Van Pelt is a classically luxe model with a level of craftsmanship that’s immediately visible to any eye. The construction of this rare 1940s design is simple at its core, but thanks to the details, it is a unique representation of early Dutch modernism.

While Bas Van Pelt's creative work was primarily influenced by the 1920s straight lines dominated by The Hague School, this model is the result of his more mature design era, which was primarily dominated by natural materials and more curvature. While made of solid wood and wicker, these armchairs have an open feel thanks to the airy arrangement of the arms and legs. The curved lines of the armrests are beautifully crafted and follow the raised seat’s angle. The curves nicely contrast with the straight lines of the frame, keeping it from appearing too strict. Apart from the expert woodwork, the upholstered seats stand out as well. The fabric is tightly fitted within the frame, and the seat’s thick shape is an especially pleasing element that offers plenty of comfort both figuratively and literally. The woven wicker backs further enhance the visual interest and thus allow the chairs to stand out. The block legs blend seamlessly into the back and form a gentle angle. Thanks to the well-chosen proportions and materials, this armchair pair provides great comfort. This model can be easily used as an accent thanks to the characteristic details, but can also complement a wide variety of interior styles with its refined and elegant style.

Bas van Pelt’s progressive designs were, in many ways, ahead of his era. The Dordrecht-born designer’s furniture models are quite rare, thus a few are preserved in the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam for modern art, contemporary art, and design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items may have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been recently reupholstered 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:

24.8 in W x 29.13 in D x 38.18 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Seat depth 22.44 in; Arm height 22.83 in

63 cm W x 74 cm D x 97 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 57 cm; Arm height 58 cm

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

During the mid-twentieth century, European furniture makers increasingly combined the clarity of modernist design with traditional materials and time-honoured woodworking techniques. Designs often celebrated exposed joinery, solid timber construction, and woven fibres, creating furniture that was both visually light and durable. This pair of armchairs reflects that approach, pairing a geometric wooden frame with hand-woven wicker elements in a composition that is both architectural and inviting.

The chairs are constructed from solid wood elements, their rectilinear frames defined by broad square-section legs connected by robust stretchers that emphasize stability and craftsmanship. The armrests are flat, yet carved ergonomically, and they extend in a clean horizontal line, framing the seat. The distinctive backrests consist of solid triangular wooden panels with a blunted upper corner and a gently carved details, introducing a sculptural quality that contrasts with the openness of the surrounding frame. Below, hand-woven wicker panels form both the back support and seat, their tightly woven texture softening the angular construction and adding warmth to the composition. The interplay between smooth timber surfaces and the tactile weave creates visual depth, while the careful proportions prevent the substantial construction from feeling heavy. Every joint and transition is clearly expressed, allowing the quality of the materials and the precision of the craftsmanship to define the character of the chairs, from the woven panels to the leg stretchers.

The result is a pair of armchairs that balances architectural structure with natural texture. Their restrained detailing, honest construction, and thoughtful use of wood and wicker make them versatile seating pieces, equally suited to modern interiors and spaces that celebrate the enduring appeal of European mid-century craftsmanship.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have minor marks, scratches, and discolouration.

Dimensions:

26.97 in W x 19.29 in D x 33.46 in. H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 25.78 in

68.5 cm W x 49 cm D x 85 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 65.5 cm

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

The “Oskar” armchair was designed in 1939; a busy year for Carl Malmsten as he also participated in the New York World Fair. It was at this fair where the expression “Swedish Modern” was coined, but Malmsten remained a traditionalist, mainly concerned with comfort in the home.

As with so many of Malmsten’s pieces of furniture, Oskar was modelled on an earlier design. This pair belongs to Carl Malmsten's earlier works, and the structures are made of solid pine from Swedish forests. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frames are expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at their core. While these armchairs may seem less “Malmstenesque”, they already have the gentle curves that defined his later designs. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The gently bent backrests are tufted with dark yellow stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. The structures are supported by the tapered, solid pine legs that add an organic touch to the design. This chair model is reminiscent of the furnishings of the sitting room of Ulriksdal Palace, which was given to the crown prince and princess, Gustav and Louise, by the Swedish people in 1923. Malmsten was commissioned to create the decor for the room, and the Oscar armchair may have been a template for this period and perhaps that is why Carl Malmsten gave the chair a royal-sounding name.

The company known today as O.H. Sjögren was established as early as the 1870s. Carl Malmsten, who had hitherto only produced the most exclusive and unique furniture for a limited and affluent clientele, sought manufacturers who were able to produce his furniture in larger volumes without compromising the high demands he placed on craftsmanship and quality. He chose O.H. Sjögren, and together they developed and marketed the many items of upholstered furniture that have become classics today.

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 reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

28.74 in W x 29.92 in D x 37.4 in H; Seat height 16.33 in

73 cm W x 76 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm

About the Designer:

Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.

In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.

Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.

Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today.