Italian Modern Lounge Chair with Upholstered Cushions Attributed to Paolo Buffa, Italy 1940s (sold)
































Italian Modern Lounge Chair with Upholstered Cushions Attributed to Paolo Buffa, Italy 1940s (sold)
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, perfect execution, and exclusivity. This lounge chair, attributed to Italian design icon Paolo Buffa, is a true testament to the glory days of mid-century modernism in Italy. His design language was always coherent with current times and congenial to the wisdom of furniture manufacturing, representing an outpost of strong innovation in the panorama of Italian craftsmanship.
This chair is focused on elegant and measured proportions, balanced compositions, and refined décor elements including the exclusive materials. The versatile shapes, from the curved, rounded edges on the top to the crossed panels on the sides and tapered legs, make this chair stand out. The slatted back and two crosses on each side contrast cleverly with the otherwise flowing lines of the frame to create a distinctive visual effect. The front legs effortlessly flow to form the armrests, creating a structured, sculptural impression. The design is especially successful at balancing its elegance with functionality while playing with geometry and different materials. The solid wooden frame is enriched with upholstered seat and back cushions in an elegant light velour fabric. Similarly to the versatility of the chair’s structure, the cushions also have diversity in terms of shapes; the thick seat cushion is paired with a round back pillow that showcases the slats on the back, enhancing the airy aesthetic. This lounge chair has an artistic impression thanks to the dynamic look created by the contrast between the geometric and the flowing lines, while retaining the elegance inherent in Italian design.
Paolo Buffa was especially passionate about furniture and product design, an area where he remained faithful to a figurative repertoire of substantial classicism, while not disdaining impulses of authentic modernity. He was extremely active in the Milanese design scene that was just as vibrant as this lounge chair. In an atmosphere committed to the reinterpretation of the Lombard classicism and Milanese architecture, exceptional pieces were created, exemplified by this chair.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches and marks on the wood. The seat and back cushions are newly made and are upholstered in a premium velour 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:
24.6 in W x 32.08 in D x 30.9 in H; Seat height 15.94; Arm height 22.63 in
62.5 cm W x 81.5 cm D x 78.5 cm H; Seat height 40.5 cm; Arm height 57.5 cm
About the designer:
Paolo Buffa (born 1903, Milan – died 1970, Milan) was an Italian furniture designer who defined his own unique design aesthetic to become one of the most sought-after Italian designers of his day. Renowned for pairing elements from both the opulent Neoclassical and the streamlined Art Deco styles around a more modern sensitivity, Buffa excelled in creating high quality pieces that spoke to the well-to-do clientele of the time.
Born in Milan in 1903, Buffa trained at the Politecnico di Milano. Following his graduation in 1927, he worked briefly for Gio Ponti, and in 1928, he partnered with architect Antonio Cassi to establish their own design studio in Milan. By 1936, Paolo Buffa opened his own independent studio where he became particularly successful, in part because he had already tapped into his unique combination of stylistic elements. His incorporation of more traditionally Neoclassical motifs or materials – for example, rich rosewoods or supple, velveteen fabrics – with the relatively avant-garde forms and themes of a lighter Art Deco style made his pieces particularly attractive to the upper classes who wished to convey their connection with contemporary design trends while also upholding an air of old-world flair.
By the end of World War II, as was the case with other important Milanese designers of the time, Paolo Buffa built close collaborations with Lombardy’s craftsmen with the common objective of making furniture of exceptional quality at a larger scale. As such, many of the successful furniture pieces that Buffa designed during this time were made by prominent and entrepreneurial craftsmen that adopted more efficient production techniques. As his career progressed in the 1950s and 60s, Buffa experimented with designs that echoed the rising trends of Minimalism across the art and design fields. Some of the opulence that once dominated his creations was replaced with increasingly streamlined forms and modern materials.
Buffa continued to create designs until shortly before his death in 1970. By that time, he was recognized as one of Italy’s most accomplished designers, however for some time following his death his work and his legacy fell temporarily into relative obscurity. But over the last decade, recognition of his talents has resurfaced and Buffa’s work has returned to the place of prominence among twentieth-century Italian design masters. ~H.
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect and furniture designer Axel Einar Hjorth served as the lead designer for Sweden’s Nordiska Kompaniet department store from 1926 to 1938. During this time, Hjorth designed the “Sportstugemöbler” series, (which translates to “sports cabin furnishings”) a collection of wooden furniture designed for country homes. The various models in the sportstugemöbler series took their names from the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and famously, Utö.
These Utö chairs were designed in 1932 as part of the collection. Unlike the department store's interiors for floors and villas in the cities, the Utö designs had a simple character with robust and basic shapes in solid pine. Accordingly, the design of these chairs focuses on simple lines and the material itself. Made of pine wood, these chairs are strong, reflecting Hjorth’s principles in which he mixed the ideals of the modernist movement with provincial Swedish traditions. As a result, the design of this set is completely timeless. Each chair demonstrates a conscious construction, where the joinery and fittings related to traditional craftsmanship are emphasized. Dominated by rounded, straight lines, the chairs have spindle backrests and ergonomically carved seats. The form alludes harmony and stability, fitting the summer cabin concept perfectly.
In an international perspective, Hjorth's “sportstugemöbler” series was the forerunner of later pioneering designers such as Charlotte Perriand. It is therefore no surprise that these Utö chairs became part of Swedish and international modernist design history. In their time, the Utö collection may have appeared as pioneering and radical, but today they are viewed as status symbols in interiors of international character.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and stains on the wood. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have scratches and discolouration.
Dimensions:
18.89 in W x 18.3 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 16.92 in
48 cm W x 46.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 43 cm
Literature:
Christian Bjork, Thomas Ekstrom and Eric Ericson, 'Axel Einar Hjorth: Mobelarkitekt', Stockholm, 2009, p.130
About the designer:
Axel Einar Hjorth was born in a small Swedish village named Krokek, just outside Norrköping, on March 7, 1888. At the age of 20, he moved to Stockholm to study architecture and design at the Högre Konstindustriella Skolan.
Although he never graduated, in the 1920s Hjorth started working as a furniture designer for various manufacturers, such as H. Joop & Co., Myrestedt & Stern, Jonssons, and Nordiska Kompaniet. Hjorth’s designs from this period had neoclassical features combined with Swedish Grace. This romantic national style of Sweden was elegant and refined, yet simple. The anniversary exhibition of 1923 in Gothenburg marked the breakthrough of Swedish decorative arts, and made Axel Einar Hjorth a well-respected artist. From October 1926, Hjorth became the chief designer and architect of Nordiska Kompaniet department store in Stockholm. In the 1930s, Hjorth designed a furniture collection out of pine meant for serial production known as Sportstugemöbler (furniture for holiday houses).
Hjorth’s designs, from the luxury of neoclassicism to the severity of functionalism, are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He played a significant role in the development of Swedish society as a whole, and particularly in Swedish industrial art
Today Hjorth is often viewed as a precursor to the modern designs popularized by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Royére, Pierre Chapo, or Josef Frank. Recently, there has been a revival of appreciation for his work, showing his genius in a new light. ~H.
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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: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Among the collection of talented individuals who have worked for Artifort, Theo Ruth was the acclaimed Dutch furniture manufacturer’s first permanent designer. Ruth’s work significantly advanced Artifort’s laudable reputation, specifically through his designs of chairs. His most famous chair is the 1952 “Congo” model that enjoyed great success.
This pair of “Congo” chairs is representative of Ruth’s craftsmanship and talent. The model is full of exceptional features and details that make it a unique example of the creative overflow that defined mid-century modernism in The Netherlands and Europe. The flowing structure displays beautifully curved lines and rounded edges, ensuring extreme comfort and emphasizing its ergonomic design. The distinct look is the result of the brilliant pairing of materials. The wooden legs’ smooth lines stand out against the textural shearling, while also accentuating the unique look of the upholstery. The soft fibres of the lightweight, feathery shearling drape beautifully over the lounge chairs, while the darker brown colour of the wood adds depth. Mid-century European designers and cabinetmakers were very firm about two things regarding seating designs: the sitting experience must be comfortable and that the model had to look good from every single angle. The ‘Congo’ model fulfills these principles with its arm-less body and interesting, curved legs. As with most lounge chairs, this model is also built in a permanently reclined position, another lovely feature.
Today, Theo Ruth's furniture designs are considered to be important examples of mid-century modern design, and his work continues to be highly valued by collectors and design enthusiasts around the world.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in Mongolian shearling. 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:
22.04 in W x 35.43 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 19.68 in
56 cm W x 90 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 50 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: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This pair of upholstered armchairs beautifully exemplifies the balance of tradition and forward-thinking design that characterised the first half of the 20th century. Unlike designs from outside the continent, European pieces weren’t flashy but rather well-made to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming interior.
The chair model is defined by a clear, well-proportioned silhouette and upholstered bodies. The design expertly combines a geometric impression and high quality materials to create a balance that defines the overall form. The wooden curved armrests frame the seats, creating a grounded and sturdy presence. These exposed wooden frames feature a continuous linear structure around the chairs, bending outward into broad armrests before descending directly into the sled-style bases. That uninterrupted curve gives the silhouette a strong architectural quality. The bodies are upholstered in a striped fabric, the pattern introduces rhythm and subtle contour without overpowering the shape. The vertical stripes emphasise the chairs’ height and give structure to its soft silhouette, while the fabric’s texture adds depth and tactility.
This armchair model is a strong example of how 1930s design prioritised comfort while embracing modern restraint. The understated elegance allows the pair to blend easily into both classic and contemporary interiors, whether used as a bedroom accent, or part of a larger seating arrangement. Timeless in form and honest in construction, the pair offers both visual clarity and lasting comfort, making it versatile with an enduring appeal.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The armchairs 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:
25.8 in W × 35.4 in D × 29.5 in H; Seat Height 14.2 in; Seat Depth 22.0 in; Arm Height 21.5 in
65.5 cm W x 90 cm D x 75 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Seat depth 56 cm; Arm height 54.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
During its heyday, Art Deco represented luxury, glamour, exuberance and faith in social and technological progress. The movement peaked in popularity around the 1930s, spreading across Europe and the United States up to the start of World War II. Art Deco designs featured rare, expensive, innovative materials and exquisite craftsmanship.
In line with the Art Deco movement during which they were created, these chairs illustrate the bold, rich and luxurious aesthetic of the era. Before giving way to mid-century modernism and its focus on function over form, Art Deco pieces coupled geometry and craftsmanship to arrive at elegantly impressive additions to interiors. This pair of armchairs live up to their rich history through their strikingly geometric form. Both the backs and the armrests introduce clear angles and wooden elements with multiple edges. The chairs feature back and seat cushions, upholstered in a soft deep green fabric that draws in the eye, bringing a warmth and an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the beech frames. The armrests are stripped down to their wooden structure, with a tapering element further highlighting the sculptural quality of the model. The short legs, with their carved ridges, balance out the voluptuous bodies, while flowing effortlessly as a continuation of the armrests to ensure the stability of the armchairs.
Created during an age of innovation - from materials, to shapes and techniques - these chairs showcase that the European furniture designers’ artistic approach was anchored in the Art Deco movement. Through their form and quality craftsmanship, this pair of armchairs makes for the perfect stylish touch of warmth and charm.
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 31.88 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 14.56 in; Seat depth 21.45 in; Arm height 22.83 in
63 cm W x 81 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 54.5 cm; Arm height 58 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Born in 1890 in France, René Gabriel was one of the leading figures of the modernist movement in Paris. From 1923 to 1950, he presented a body of work, offering an innovative vision on the way people would live in the new century. He became widely recognised for developing practical, well-made furniture intended for the reconstruction period following the Second World War. Appointed president of the Société des Artistes Décorateurs (SAD) at the Liberation, he steered French decoration towards more economical productions, with sharp lines, efficient joinery, and a preference for the authenticity of local woods over imported species.
The daybed features a dark-stained wooden frame with clean, crisp lines that bring structure to its gentle form. Since the aesthetic is dominated by straight lines, the luxurious upholstery stays in focus, utilising the fabric’s softness to break the straight lines visually. Paired with the dark wood structure, the result is elegant and timeless, an aesthetic that can easily complement any style. In the absence of any other form of ornamentation, the materials stay in focus. The marriage of the wood and the fabric encapsulates the essence of modern French design. Every element appears carefully proportioned, with the silhouette remaining minimal yet bold and charming. Overall, this piece allows the craftsmanship and material quality to speak without unnecessary ornamentation.
Combining French craftsmanship, functional innovation, and a warm natural presence, it stands as a strong testament of French design from the 20th century that remains relevant and appreciated today.
Condition:
In vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The daybed has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The daybed has recently been reupholstered in 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:
70.86 in W x 32.67 in D x 26.37 in H
180 cm W x 83 cm D x 67 cm H
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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: 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: 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
In an era marked by unprecedented cultural dynamism and bold artistic expression, the Art Deco movement emerged as a testament to modernity and sophistication. This period witnessed the creation of exquisite furniture pieces that epitomised the union of form and function, with this pair of armchairs standing out as a prime example.
In line with the Art Deco movement during which they were designed and manufactured, these chairs illustrate the bold, rich and luxurious aesthetic of the era. Before giving way to mid-century modernism and its focus on function over form, Art Deco pieces coupled geometry and craftsmanship to arrive as elegantly impressive additions to the era’s interiors. The upholstery is soft but controlled, with clean planes and subtle curves rather than excess padding. The seats are deep and inviting, designed for practical use, while the proportions remain compact enough to feel composed in a room. The wooden elements frame the upholstery and emphasise the chair’s structure, reinforcing its Art Deco character. Every detail works together, from the block-like legs to the precise transitions between wood and fabric, creating a chair model that feels deliberate, balanced, and quietly strong.
As a pair, this design captures the lasting appeal of Art Deco furniture: comfort shaped by discipline and elegance rooted in form rather than ornament. It works equally well as a statement chair in a living room or as a refined accent in a bedroom or study. Its presence offers visual weight without heaviness and comfort without excess, in true Art Deco fashion.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items have marks 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:
25.8 in W × 37.8 in D × 31.5 in H; Seat Height: 13.4 in; Seat Depth: 19.7 in; Arm Height: 22.0 in
65.5 cm W x 96 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat Height 34 cm; Seat Depth 50 cm; Arm Height 56 cm