Red-caped matadors, knights in armour battling windmills, cabinets. All of these things are quintessentially Spanish, and so are these chairs, but all in different ways. The Brutalist touch offers dark oak frames with few distractions, so that the beholder can become aware of the subtle qualities of the design that make this pair entirely unique.

One more thing that defines Spain is its design history. While mid-century design is not the first thing that comes to mind, post-war Spanish modernism is out there to be rediscovered, and thankfully it is. The strong impulses in Spain toward tradition and minimalism are evident in these brutalist armchairs. Thanks largely to its extended holy war, Spain maintained a medieval attitude much longer than the rest of Europe. In their furniture, exemplified by this pair, this was reflected in large wooden furniture that was often somewhat crude compared to other European styles. Spanish furniture had a rustic, rough quality to it, that suited the extreme climates of Spanish regions, like the Extremadura. Following in this vein, these chairs preserve a lot of the material’s visible marks of making, which suggest a history and a bit of mystery. The frames are not too polished or sterile, instead, they have a clear preference for texture, roughness, and depth all of which are greatly enhanced by the dark stained oak. The skilful mortise and tenon joinery further add to the rustic aesthetic, not only joining the separate parts of the frames, but also serving as decorative elements. The edges are gently rounded to counter the Brutalist impression. Further softening and enlivening the look is the brown sheepskin in which the seats and backs are covered.

From the short arms, wide stretchers and joinery to the visible handwork of the craftsman, these Spanish cabinetmaker chairs are artisan pieces with a belief in purity of structure and truth in materials that we identify with. Thanks to the Brutalist design process, this pair has arrived at something essential and honest, proving that luxury can be less rather than more.

SOLD

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs are upholstered in brown sheepskin. 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:

31.88 in W x 25.59 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 17.71 in

81 cm W x 65 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 45 cm