Artifort was founded in 1890, when Jules Wagemans started a business as an upholsterer in Maastricht. A great deal changed with the arrival of the interior and furniture designer Kho Liang Ie, and in 1959 he recruited the French designer Pierre Paulin, beginning a long and fruitful collaboration between Paulin and the Dutch manufacturer. Pierre Paulin’s model “577” lounge chairs, also known as the “Tongue Chairs” or “Langue” in French, represent a bold and fluid design language that emerged in the mid-20th century.

Designed in 1967, and produced by Dutch furniture manufacturer Artifort, the chairs are a hallmark of Paulin’s sculptural approach to furniture. He believed that “a chair should be more than simply functional”. This lounge chair model features a seamless, flowing form that echoes the curve of a human tongue. The pair of lounge chairs offer a fresh departure from traditional seating, embodying the futuristic and organic sensibilities of the 1960s. Constructed with a metal frame covered in foam and upholstered in a beautiful off-white textured fabric, the design prioritises both form and comfort. The low armless profile encourages a relaxed posture and makes it visually striking from all angles. Paulin’s innovative use of materials and emphasis on ergonomic design allowed this chair model to become both a functional piece and a statement, and ideal for modernist interiors that value design and experimentation.

Today, the “577”/ “Langue” chair stands as a timeless icon of modern design, revered for its originality and enduring appeal. Through this design, Pierre Paulin and Artifort captured a unique moment when comfort, form, and avant-garde aesthetics come together beautifully.

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

Dimensions:

31.88 in W x 38.18 in D x 24.80 in H; Seat height 14.56 in; Seat depth 22.83 in

81 cm W x 97 cm D x 63 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 58 cm