Set of Four Geometric Dining Chairs with Sheepskin Seats by Rach Finazzi, Italy 1980s (sold)
Set of Four Geometric Dining Chairs with Sheepskin Seats by Rach Finazzi, Italy 1980s (sold)
Rach Finazzi, an Italian designer active from the late 20th century, is recognised for a distinctive approach to furniture-making that merges geometric structures with unique materials. Finazzi’s work often explores unconventional forms and material contrasts, from glass to metal and wood, resulting in pieces that command attention both as functional furniture and as sculptural statements.
This set of four geometric dining chairs is a quintessential example of Finazzi’s design ethos, they are characterised by a striking interplay between angular metal frameworks, natural wood, and plush sheepskin. The chairs rest on slender, black metal legs that intersect to create a dynamic, sculptural base, flowing into the arms. The composition feels both visually light and structurally stable. Adding to the design, the backrests are crafted from solid wood in a dramatically tapered, triangular form. The backs introduce an architectural element that draws the eye upward, establishing a visual dialogue between the angular metal structure and the natural wood grain. To fully drive in the textural juxtaposition, the seats are upholstered in longhair sheepskin, adding a warm, inviting texture that contrasts beautifully with the cool, industrial feel of the metal frame and the earthy wooden backrest.
More than just seating, this set of four functions as sculptural pieces that showcase Finazzi’s ability to harmonise disparate materials and forms. The combination of materials creates a compelling visual and tactile experience, showcasing the skill and creativity of Italian craftsmanship. Whether arranged around a dining table or displayed as standalone accent pieces, they encapsulate a bold design language, merging functionality with a strong artistic presence.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 22.04 in D x 44.68 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 20.47; Arm height 24.40
49 cm W x 56 cm D x 113.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 62 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.