Pair of Modernist Armchairs, Italy ca 1950s (sold)
Pair of Modernist Armchairs, Italy ca 1950s (sold)
Mid-century designers were eager to break free from the aesthetics of the past and experiment with new forms and techniques. At the same time, especially in Europe, the modernist design movement was often based on traditional styles and materials. One example of this modernist approach to furniture design is this pair of upholstered Italian armchairs.
These chairs represent a departure from the ornate, heavily embellished furniture of the past, and instead emphasize the beauty of the materials themselves. With its classic shape paired with modern design elements, this armchair model combines the best characteristics of the mid-century era. They feature a classic shape with soft curves. The rounded lines create an inviting and open look, enhanced by the premium upholstery that is undoubtedly its main visual feature. The fabric is simple, stylish and elegant, contributing to the chairs’ overall plush aesthetic while offering the sitters a tactile experience. Fulfilling the fundamental design principles of exceptional sitting support, the backs are subtly tilted for comfort. Quality craftsmanship was evidently of importance for the cabinetmaker who created these chairs. The chairs rest on short wooden feet that give the pair the needed support.
Perfect for anchoring a living room or bedroom, these armchairs will effortlessly elevate any space and add much sought-after cosiness. With their craftsmanship, impeccable detailing, and natural materials, these pieces seamlessly integrate form and function, representing a statement of mid-century design.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pair of armchairs 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:
35.43 in W x 37.40 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 17.32; Seat depth 21.65 in; Arm height 25.39 in
90 cm W x 95 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 55 cm; Arm height 64.5 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The Italian architect, painter and furniture designer, Guglielmo Ulrich, descended from a noble family with Danish origins. He quickly became a very influential figure in modern Italian design and his models are real delicacies today.
As this pair of 1950s lounge chairs show, Ulrich’s work is elegant and rich in detail. Although his work does not quite conform with the strict norms of simplicity of the time, it fits the prevalent aesthetics of Modernism. In the case of these chairs, the fully upholstered bodies show the general mid-century modern characteristics with an ergonomic and functional design. The seats are slightly raised, and the backs tilted, creating an angle that supports the sitter and the lounging experience. The wooden arms transcending to form the back legs however, truly stand out. The sharp curvature of the armrests and front legs define the look and create an interesting effect, as if the upholstered seats and backs were connected to them without joinery. The carved, dark wood and soft upholstery make them even more pronounced. There are more, subtler features to these chairs, including the wider armrests and the curved backrests, both in service of comfortable lounging. Thanks to the quality of his furnishings, that Ulrich designed and made personally, he became the trusted architects of many upper-class Milanese families. He participates in the furnishing of the most prestigious Italian ships: Cristoforo Colombo, Raffaello, etc.
“A nobleman of yesteryear, with sudden jokes and twists, such as a pipe with an egg in his mouth and a very concrete sense of doing” is how he was often described. This pair of chairs is much like this description with a playful, elegant design completed by quality materials and craftsmanship.
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:
24.4 in W x 31.69 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 23.42 in
62 cm W x 80.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 59.5 cm
About the designer:
Guglielmo Ulrich (born 1904, Milan–died 1977) was an Italian architect, furniture designer, and painter. He was born to a notable family of Danish origin. In 1924, Ulrich enrolled in the Scuola Speciale di Architettura at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera. He finished his studies at Politecnico di Milano in 1927 and soon became a very influential figure in modern Italian design.
In 1930, along with Scaglia and Wild, Guglielmo Ulrich founded and became head designer of home furnishing company Arca (Arredamento casa, or Home Furnishing), a company engaged in the creation of high-quality furnishing accessories characterized by craftsmanship and the use of premium materials. In the 1950s, he participated in several editions of the Triennale di Milano and concentrated on designing buildings, offices, and retail shops throughout Italy.
Most of Ulrich’s furniture designs from this era, and especially his chairs and chaise lounges, resemble simplified and streamlined design versions of late 19th century pieces and do not necessarily conform to modern designs prevalent in Northern Europe and the U.S. in the 1950s. In the 1960s, Ulrich focused his work toward industrial design and was able to create original and impactful objects. His talent was rewarded on many occasions. In 1961, he won the Fiera di Trieste award for his Trieste chair, produced by furniture maker Saffa.