Ilmari Tapiovaara Set of Four "Pirkka" Dining Chairs for Laukaan Puu, Finland 1950s
Ilmari Tapiovaara Set of Four "Pirkka" Dining Chairs for Laukaan Puu, Finland 1950s
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
These “Pirkka” dining chairs are a beautiful example of Finnish modern design. Ilmari Tapiovaara triumphantly won several golden medals during the 1950s at the Milan Triennale for his projects, and he, alongside many others, brought Finnish design to a great peak. This set of dining chairs is a perfect combination of simplicity, functionality, and the organic aesthetic of that golden age. The chairs are made of natural wood with black painted elements, showcasing Tapiovaara's skill in creating visually interesting and durable furniture.
The "Pirkka" chairs are known for their clean lines and minimalistic style, reflecting Tapiovaara's focus on functionalism and human-centred design principles. The seat and backrest, typically made from birch or pine, provide a comfortable and supportive sitting experience. They contrast nicely with the black-painted legs and back support spindles, creating a balanced and harmonious look. The seat is crafted from two solid wooden planks with slight curvature, and the backrest is made of a single, elegantly shaped wood piece. The outward-splayed legs add to the chair's stability and give it a slim, airy appearance, in line with Tapiovaara's belief that good design should be accessible and functional for everyday use.
Ilmari Tapiovaara's influence and dedication to creating high-quality, functional furniture is evident in the "Pirkka" chairs. Inspired by modernism and Scandinavian design, these chairs embody simplicity, functionality, and use of natural materials. They aim to enhance the communal dining experience through skilled craftsmanship and timeless design, resonating with contemporary audiences and showcasing Tapiovaara's lasting impact on furniture design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
14.96 in W x 15.35 in D x 30.32 in H; Seat height 16.54 in
38 cm W x 39 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 42 cm
About the designer:
Ilmari Tapiovaara graduated in 1937 as interior architect from the department of furniture design of the Central School of Arts and Crafts. Even before graduating, Tapiovaara went abroad to work for Alvar Aalto in Artek's London office in 1935. Right after completing his education Tapiovaara got a position of assistant at the office of Le Corbusier, in France. These were not the only times he learned from international masters; he also worked with Ludwig Mies van der Rohe in Chicago, in 1953. Read more about Ilmari Tapiovaara. ~H.
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The “Laila” model by the Finnish designer, Ilmari Lappalainen, originates from 1948, with the earliest original drawings kept in the Lahti City Museum in their Lappalainen Collection.
This pair of armchairs are from the Finnish designer’s most famous series called “Laila”. The design became sought after by collectors even in its production time, which is quite rare in the case of Nordic mid-century modern furniture. Lappalainen was a renowned designer, famous for his designs’ comfort. Some of his designs even received medical approval because they had such a good seating, that it prevented back problems. These armchairs have a cosy modern style, modelled on the Swedish and Danish furniture of the time, including the round edges and generous seat cushions and back with five tufted buttons. The bodies have the classic Nordic look, which explains the contemporary popularity of these armchairs both among the public and museums. The modern aesthetic is further elevated by the soft sheepskin upholstery that complements the shape and the wooden, tapered legs as well.
Wood is omnipresent in the Nordics, and Finnish woodworking is world-famous for its traditions. These chairs were created for Asko, the Finnish furniture manufacturing company founded in 1918 by Aukusti Asko Avonius, known for the production of high-quality furniture. By 1930, the company had developed into the largest furniture chain in Finland and the largest supplier of furniture in the Scandinavian countries. Favourites of this time included Ilmari Lappalainen’s present Laila armchairs.
Condition:
In good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the material, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
32.67 in W x 34.64 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 17.71 in
83 cm W x 88 cm D x 87.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm