Woven Rope Wingback Armchair in the Manner of Erich Diekmann, The Netherlands 1940s (sold)
Woven Rope Wingback Armchair in the Manner of Erich Diekmann, The Netherlands 1940s (sold)
This rare armchair, recalling the Bauhaus, is made of bent wood and woven rope. Erich Dieckmann was one of the preeminent furniture designers of the Bauhaus, and his furniture models are often characterized by quality hardwoods, cane matting and geometric frames that link the armrests and legs, creating a unique runner construction.
This model is therefore clearly inspired by a typical Dieckmann model, with a curved stained wood frame that perfectly shows the avant-garde yet minimalist style and workmanship. The wooden structure was a technical innovation in its time as it was created by steam bending the wood. During the process, the wood is exposed to steam to make it pliable. Heat and moisture from steam can soften wood fibres enough, so they can be bent and stretched, and when cooled down they will hold their new shape. This is most apparent in the armrests‘ curvature that flows down to form the front legs - this continuous piece being one of the main focal points of the design. The frame is complemented by the elegant rope seat and backrest woven tightly around the wood, the woven seating giving it a warm and cosy feel all while staying very functional. The chair’s simplicity and honest elegance makes it an exceptional piece of furniture.
While the Bauhaus movement itself lasted only 14 years, Bauhaus architecture and design has had an enduring impact on generations of designers. Before and during its rise, design trends were highly decorative and ornate, including Victorian style, Colonial style, and Art Deco. Bauhaus revolutionized the design field of the day by aiming for simple, functional buildings and furniture, as this chair demonstrates. These influences carried on through modernist architecture and are still seen throughout different movements, especially in Scandinavian minimalism and mid-century modern design.
SOLD
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
24.02 in W x 25.98 in D x 31.30 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 16.34 in; Arm height 24.02 in
61 cm W x 66 cm D x 79.5 H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 41.5 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Derived from the French "brut", meaning raw, Brutalism describes the architectural style that emerged in the mid-20th century, featuring minimalist constructions that showcase bare materials and structural elements over decorative design. It originated post–World War II, when low-cost housing and government buildings were composed of mainly raw, unrefined materials. Similarly, in furniture design, Brutalism inspired creators to follow the same look of deliberate simplicity, honesty and strength.
This armchair stands as evidence why many European architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design; the precision of the structure and the rush weaving is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, the designer’s focus was evidently on practicality, structural stability, and construction in favour of these principles. The straight lines and the absence of excess decoration are very typical of the era’s designers, who saw possibilities in the aesthetics of modernist design and materials. This beautiful chair’s simplicity and honest look combined with brutalist influences enhances the exceptional craftsmanship. The woven back and upholstered seat gives the piece an organic and cosy impression, all while staying very functional. It is perfect to bring natural charm to a minimalist space. The oak has a beautiful patina due to its age, feature that enhances even more its charm.
Its bold, unapologetic aesthetic resonates with those seeking a departure from the sleek minimalism of recent years. This armchair serves as both an homage to the past and a testament to the timeless allure of Brutalism.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item has marks, and scratches. The arms show discolouration. The seat cushion 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:
25.19 in W x 27.95 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.62 in
64 cm W x 71 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60 cm