Oak and Rush Armchair by LOV, Netherlands ca 1920s (sold)


















Oak and Rush Armchair by LOV, Netherlands ca 1920s (sold)
The Amsterdamse School was a movement that defined Dutch architecture and design from as early as the 1910s. The style found its roots in Expressionist architecture, borrowing elements from the Jugendstil (Art Nouveau) and Art Deco design aesthetic.
Extremely modest and confident at the same time is how this piece can be best described. In the early 20th century, Dutch designers adopted a commitment to hand-craftsmanship and the idea that artistic talent should benefit society. Following the international Art Nouveau movement, designers practiced integration of all the arts and drew motifs from nature, rather than eclectic historical precedents. Made in the famed Dutch factory LOV (Labor Omna Vincit) in Oosterbeek, this chair is a beautiful representation of the manufacturer’s heritage in the Netherlands. Standing as evidence of the reason many Dutch architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design; the precision of the structure is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, the maker’s focus was evidently on practicality, structural stability, and a design in favour of these principles. The straight lines and the absence of excess decoration are also very typical of the era’s cabinetmakers. The chair’s aesthetic is defined by the thick wooden lines and the minimal structure framing the woven seat. The structure of the chair features an airy and organic look thanks to the simple, straight lines of the sleek legs and semi-open back.
This beautiful chair’s simplicity and honest design combined with early modernist influences enhances the exceptional craftsmanship. The woven seat give it a subtle organic and cosy impression, all while remaining very functional. It is the perfect way to bring organic charm to a minimalist space.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
24.01 in W x 23.62 in D x 31.69 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 22.44
61 cm W x 60 cm D x 80.5 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 57 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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