Swedish design is characterised by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. The mastery of Swedish designer and architect, Bertil Fridhagen lies in creating a model that is, as its name suggests, aristocratic and minimal at the same time. With a lack of a corresponding Swedish name, 'mid-century modern' describes the attributes that were popular during the middle of the 20th century. During this period, the ornate was completely replaced with cleaner lines.

This sofa follows the ideals of mid-century Sweden in a very visible way: its block-like silhouette and simple frame, the superficially set tufted buttons in long rows, and the round pillows that soften the look. This three-seater sofa, which is part of Fridhagen’s “Aristokrat” line, combines elements of classical and modern design with utmost quality. The solid walnut beautifully frames the upholstered body, outlining the welcoming silhouette of the sofa. The frame has a stunning curvaceous design, with an outward-curving end that breaks the otherwise square shape. The embracing body’s curve enhances the beautiful original chenille upholstery with small deep-stitched buttons. Swedish design prefers colours rooted in nature, muted tones that aren’t screaming about their presence, but still attract the eye naturally. The sofa’s yellow chenille upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. The cushions are removable and reversible, adding to the comfort of the sitter.

Bröderna Andersson, the sofa’s manufacturer is first and foremost characterised by Swedish quality, Småland craftsmanship and professional pride. At Bröderna Andersson's, the entire production chain was under one roof. From the choice of wood species to the production of the frames, and careful attention so that the last seam is in place, quality is Bröderna Andersson’s word of honour.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the wood. The sofa retains its original upholstery.

Dimensions:

75.59 in W x 32.48 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 19.48 in

192 cm W x 82.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 49.5 cm

About the Designer:

Bertil August Julius Fridhagen was born on February 16 in1905 in Norra Sandsjö parish, Jönköping county, and was a renowned Swedish architect and furniture designer.
Bertil Fridhagen grew up in Bodafors. His father was a carpenter and he also started as a carpenter at AB Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he became the student of the architect Carl Erik Ekholm. Later, he decided to further his education at Konstfack in Stockholm. In a reversed way, Fridhagen started out gaining experience in cabinetry before completing his formal education in architecture.
He returned to Bodafors in 1937, where at first, he was employed at Sandsjö Möbelfabrik (1937-39) and then became chief architect at Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he succeeded his teacher, Ekholm. He became an important figure for the success of Svenska Möbelfabrikerna and in 1964 Bertil Fridhagen's models accounted for two thirds of home furniture production, which was an extreme success. For comparison, the much more well-known designer, Carl Malmsten's models accounted for a quarter. Bertil Fridhagen's biggest sales success was the combination series “Variett”.

Fridhagen won numerous prizes at various design competitions, including in Denmark in 1954, the California State Fair in Sacramento with the Librettserien in 1956, in Italy in 1966, 1968 and 1970 and in Tennessee in 1972. He also designed buildings, but above all interiors, he is remembered for the Bodafors church. The designer is remembered for his versatile models which are beautiful examples of Swedish design ideals. ~H.