Pair of Norwegian Armchairs in Cowhide, Norway ca 1930s (sold)
Pair of Norwegian Armchairs in Cowhide, Norway ca 1930s (sold)
Norwegian furniture design of the 1930s occupies a unique position between the decorative language of Art Deco and the emerging ideals of modernism. During this period, artists embraced a balance of structure and comfort, producing seating that combined clean, geometric outlines with a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. Influenced by broader European movements, it favoured simplified forms, restrained ornamentation, and high-quality natural materials, resulting in pieces that felt both modern and grounded in tradition.
This pair of armchairs is defined by their solid, cubic silhouette and fully upholstered bodies. The form is composed of clear, straight lines, with a slightly reclined backrest and gently flowing armrests that create a welcoming seating position. The upholstery in cowhide introduces both texture and visual softness, subtly contrasting the strict geometry of the structure. This material choice enhances the tactile quality of the chairs, while also highlighting the craftsmanship involved in their construction. The seats are generous, allowing a comfortable sitting position. Low, block-like wooden feet anchor the design and reinforce its grounded presence. The overall composition is both strong, bold, and balanced, with the unique upholstery balanced by the simplicity and sleekness of the form. This makes the pair highly adaptable, capable of complementing a wide range of interiors while still retaining a distinct identity.
These armchairs are a visual delight that exudes both warmth and elegance. The enveloping feel and textural comfort allow these chairs to be as welcoming as they are beautiful, perfectly combining form and function for everyday living.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. 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 premium cowhide. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.53 in W x 36.62 in D x 31.50 in H; Seat height 14.97 in; Seat depth 23.63 in; Arm height 22.84 in
75 cm W x 93 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 60 cm; Arm height 58 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Wim den Boon was a Dutch designer and architect associated with the post-war modernist movement in the Netherlands. After studying interior design at the Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague, he worked alongside artists like Hein Stolle and Pierre Kleykamp to contribute to a number of important post-war interiors, including projects for Schiphol Airport. Den Boon later established himself independently in The Hague, where he designed furniture characterised by restrained compositions, careful spatial treatment, and a preference for unadorned everyday materials.
Influences from De Stijl and Scandinavian modernism remained visible throughout his work, particularly in the balance between strict structure and warmth. This lounge chair reflects that sensibility through its reduced oak construction and tactile ponyskin upholstery. The frame is composed of cylindrical supports and straight horizontal rails, creating a clear geometric outline around the upholstered body. The proportions are low and generous, giving the piece a relaxed, grounded posture. The seat and backrest form a wide lounging space upholstered entirely in champagne-coloured ponyskin. The material introduces a textured surface, giving the otherwise minimal form a sense of movement and depth. Still, the oak remains visible throughout the design, outlining the silhouette and through its slim slats it prevents the chair from appearing overly heavy. The tilt of the backrest softens the strict geometry and contributes to the lounge-like comfort of the piece.
Den Boon was part of the generation of Dutch designers who helped shape post-war modernism in the Netherlands through a restrained and architectural approach to furniture. This chair is proof of his talent. It feels architectural in structure, yet tactile and warm in appearance, reflecting the balance that made Dutch modernist furniture so distinctive during the period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lounge chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The piece has recently been reupholstered in premium ponyskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.79 in W x 34.26 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 14.97 in; Seat depth 20.67 in
65.5 cm W x 87 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm