Pair of Oak Armchairs in Champagne Ponyskin by Wim den Boon, the Netherlands 1960s (sold)
















Pair of Oak Armchairs in Champagne Ponyskin by Wim den Boon, the Netherlands 1960s (sold)
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 pair of armchairs reflects that sensibility in the simple oak construction and tactile ponyskin upholstery. The frames are composed of cylindrical supports and straight horizontal rails, creating clear geometric outlines around the upholstered bodies. The proportions are low and generous, giving the pieces a relaxed, grounded posture. The functionality of this pair is further increased by the wooden armrests. The seats and backrests are wide for lounging and are upholstered entirely in champagne-coloured ponyskin. The material introduces a texture, giving the otherwise minimal forms a sense of movement and depth. Still, the oak remains visible throughout the designs, outlining the silhouettes and, through its slim slats, preventing the chairs from appearing overly heavy. The tilt of the backrests softens the strict geometry and contributes to the lounge-like comfort of the pair.
Den Boon was part of the generation of Dutch designers who helped shape post-war modernism in the Netherlands using a restrained and architectural approach to furniture. These armchairs reflect that vision clearly. They feel architectural in structure, yet tactile and warm in appearance, balancing clarity of form with the softness of the upholstery and the richness of the natural materials.
SOLD
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:
28.93 in W x 34.45 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 14.97 in; Seat depth 20.67 in; Arm height 21.66 in
73.5 cm W x 87.5 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm; Arm height 55 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