Wood and Straw Armchair in the manner of Charlotte Perriand, France Mid-20th Century (sold)
















Wood and Straw Armchair in the manner of Charlotte Perriand, France Mid-20th Century (sold)
This wood and straw armchair was produced in France during the mid-20th century and reflects the design philosophy associated with Charlotte Perriand. During this time, French modernism embraced a return to natural materials, rural traditions, and functional simplicity as a response to earlier decorative excess. Designers sought to combine modernist ideals with local craftsmanship, creating furniture that was honest, practical, and connected to everyday life. Pieces like this one embody the belief that good design should balance comfort, durability, and visual appeal.
The armchair is constructed from solid wood, featuring a robust frame defined by cylindrical legs and softly rounded structural elements. The slightly tapered posts and turned details introduce a subtle sculptural quality while maintaining its overall sense of restraint. The woven straw seat provides warmth and texture, contrasting beautifully with the darker wooden structure and reinforcing the chair’s handcrafted character. The straw weaving is masterfully executed, offering both flexibility and strength, and contributes to the chair’s lightweight appearance despite its sturdy construction. The armrests create an open and inviting posture that enhances comfort without excessive detail. The backrest, formed by horizontal wooden slats and rounded finials, adds rhythm and balance to the composition. Every element feels purposeful, from the visible joinery to the natural finishes. This piece emphasizes material honesty, allowing the grain of the wood and the irregularity of the straw to become central aesthetic features rather than imperfections.
This armchair captures the enduring appeal of mid-century French design. It functions equally well as a dining chair, accent piece, or occasional armchair within both modern and rustic interiors. Timeless in form and rich in texture, it stands as a perfect blend of modernist clarity and traditional craftsmanship.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
25.20 in W x 22.24 in D x 35.03 in H; Seat height 16.73 in; Seat depth 18.89 in; Arm height 25.79 in
64 cm W x 56.5 cm D x 89 cm H; Seat height 42.5 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 65.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs 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 often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.
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 wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. 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 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in
49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm