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
This remarkable armchair was designed by German artist, Willi Ohler. The so-called “Worpsweder” either denote chairs made at the Worpsweder Kunsthütten (Worpsweder arts huts) in Germany, or a specific style of German chairs with solid wood frames, broad armrests, often from tall wood, with woven seats and backs. This piece features all of those characteristics.
Crafted during a time when movements like Modernism were reshaping design worldwide, this early 20th-century armchair reflect a transitional style rooted in both simplicity and elegance. This era emphasises clean lines, unique shapes, and high-quality craftsmanship to achieve timeless pieces like this one. The honey-toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The softly sculpted armrests framing the chair bring both elegance and ergonomic comfort to the overall form. Woven wicker is the main highlight of the piece. The material is used to construct the seat and tall backrest. The beautifully symmetrical pattern showcases the timeless artistry of artisanal furniture. The rectangular, slim legs create a sleek structure while not abandoning sturdiness. This chair preserves the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials.
Worpswede in Lower Saxony is famous nationwide for its long tradition as an artists' colony. Nowadays, about 130 artists and craftsmen and women live there permanently. The artists who created the so called "Worpsweder Kuentlerkolonie" were looking for the simple and original in art and life. The traditional reed and rush woven chairs of this region were greatly appreciated by the artists of the colony, and some of them were still produced around 1900-1920. They have become collectors’ pieces thanks to the craftsmanship that went into each chair’s creation.
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 materials the item has minor scratches and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.64 in W x 33.07 in D x 46.45 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 24.80 in
88 cm W x 84 cm D x 118 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 63 cm