Pair of Model "103" Oak Side Chairs by René Gabriel, France 1940s
































Pair of Model "103" Oak Side Chairs by René Gabriel, France 1940s
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Born in 1890 in France, René Gabriel was one of the leading figures of the modernist movement in Paris. From 1923 to 1950, he presented an innovative body of work, offering innovative vision on the way people would live in the new century. He became widely recognised for developing practical, well-made furniture intended for the reconstruction period following the Second World War. Appointed president of the Société des Artistes Décorateurs (SAD) at the Liberation, he steered French decoration towards more economical productions, with sharp lines, efficient joinery, and a preference for the authenticity of local woods over imported species.
Gabriel distinguished himself through the extreme simplicity and sturdiness of his designs, where a Cartesian aesthetic streamlined production. His work rejected unnecessary ornament in favour of robust construction, honest materials, and economical forms that could be produced efficiently without compromising quality. The design of this pair of chairs are ingeniously functional and have a well-thought-out structure, crafted from oak. The chairs are built from a series of straightforward elements that work together with remarkable precision. The horizontal back slats create an open, lightweight appearance while providing comfortable support, and the slightly curved sides soften the otherwise rectilinear composition. The slatted wooden seats continues this emphasis on practicality, allowing the grain of the oak to remain fully visible while introducing subtle texture. The legs are gently tapered and connected by unobtrusive stretchers, giving the chairs excellent stability without adding unnecessary visual weight. Every joint is clearly expressed, making the construction itself part of the design rather than something to be concealed.
Model “103” belongs to René Gabriel’s body of work reflecting his enduring belief that good design should remain elegant through clarity of purpose, thoughtful craftsmanship, and an unwavering focus on function. Wood has never gone out of style, and pieces with an emphasis on a natural look are only gaining popularity today. These oak chairs are equally striking standing alone, or as part of an interior with a medley of styles.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the oak, the chairs have minor marks, scratches, and discoloration.
Dimensions:
16.93 in W x 16.53 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat Height 17.72 in; Seat Depth 15.55 in
43 cm W x 42 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
These two chairs exemplify late 20th century to early 21st century German craftsmanship. The design uses elements of geometry to create a unique look, while utilising the natural qualities of the wood in contrast to their highly stylised form.
These chairs are made from elm wood, which becomes the central point, both aesthetically and structurally. The backrests assert a slight wing-back like profile through the flared ears of their dramatic backs, that taper in before flowing to the seats. This design choice creates a continuous, ergonomic form, that displays the beautifully unique grain of the material. While crafted from solid wood, the pieces still have an airiness to them. The emphasis on simplicity and functionality makes these chairs versatile pieces suitable for a variety of interior settings. Whether used in dining rooms, living areas, or as accent pieces in galleries and showrooms, these chairs are both practical and stylish.
Sculptural furniture is a large umbrella term that includes many different design styles. What they all have in common is pushing the boundaries of what residential design should and could be. This pair of chairs is sure to bring that flair to any space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
17.72 in W x 22.05 in D x 40.75 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 15.35 in
45 cm W x 56 cm D x 103.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 39 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This pair of chairs, crafted in France in the first half of the 20th century, was designed in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, one of the most distinctive figures in French decorative arts of the interwar period. Dudouyt’s work is often celebrated for its rustic charm, and masterful handling of wood, bridging tradition with the evolving aesthetics of Art Deco and modern design.
The use of wood and wicker to craft this pair of chairs belongs to a tradition that valued honest workmanship and the tactile richness of natural materials - this material choice allowed for the creation of objects that feel grounded, inviting, and timeless. The richly toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The seats are made from woven wicker, offering comfort without sacrificing the chair's sculptural integrity. The wooden frames are skillfully carved, with each chair featuring a beautiful geometric backrest that not only provides ergonomic support but also adds an element of elegance. Ideal for both contemporary and vintage-inspired settings, this pair embodies the timeless appeal of 20th century European design. Whether arranged around a dining table or used as standalone pieces, these chairs make a bold yet refined statement of style and comfort.
Functional yet sculptural, rustic yet refined, this set stands as an enduring testament of the striking balance only master woodworkers are able to create.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, minor marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration are present. The wicker seating of the chairs show signs of wear.
Dimensions:
17.91 in W x 19.68 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 19.14 in
45.5 cm W x 50 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 41 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This set of dining chairs, crafted in France in the first half of the 20th century, was designed in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, one of the most distinctive figures in French decorative arts of the interwar period. Dudouyt’s work is often celebrated for its rustic charm, and masterful handling of wood, bridging tradition with the evolving aesthetics of Art Deco and modern design.
This set embodies 20th century design qualities through its grounded presence and confident use of materials. This design is all about the wooden structures. The discreet joinery and seamless construction reflect the French emphasis on detail and quality, elevating the chairs beyond just function to objects of aesthetic value. The chairs are made from solid wood in a rich, dark stain that accentuates the natural grain to create subtle warmth and depth. Furthermore, the woven straw seats of the chairs feature a decorative pattern, seamlessly blending function with aesthetics. The choice of the textured seats complements the wood frames, creating a harmonious visual appeal. The silhouettes of these chairs are reduced to the essentials, with upright backrests and square seats supported by slender legs.
This set of chairs is ideal for a space that embraces authenticity and values materials in their natural form. Their clean look and rustic sensibility make them stand out without the need for embellishment, offering a quiet but impactful addition to an interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
17.33 in W x 18.12 in D x 38.78 in H; Seat height 18.12 in; Seat depth 16.34 in
44 cm W x 46 cm D x 98.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 41.5 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Working against the minimal shapes and ergonomic design of streamlined mid-century European furniture, the maker of these chairs moved away from highly polished factory uniformity and toward more expressive, hand-worked forms. In smaller workshops especially, chairs like these were shaped through carving and direct craftsmanship, allowing irregular contours, visible tool marks, and natural grain variation to remain part of the final appearance rather than something to conceal.
This set of three retains clearly visible traces of hand construction: uneven carving and forms shaped by the maker’s hand rather than by machinery. Pieces of this kind sit between functional furniture and sculptural woodworking, reflecting a period when natural materials and individual craftsmanship remained central to modern interiors. This set carries visual rhythm through the relationship between the seats, legs, and backrests. The backs rise from a single central support and widen into broad asymmetrical crests, their silhouettes cut with irregular contours that make each chair slightly different from the next. Instead of polished precision, the wood has a raw tactile quality, with visible grain variation, softened edges, and surfaces that reveal the carving process. The outward-angled legs create a stable stance and complete the design. Because the construction is uniform in terms of material, every detail becomes noticeable: the slight taper of the legs, the thickness of the wood, the way the backrests appear almost branch-like in profile.
The set has a strong physical presence without relying on decorative excess, feeling intimate rather than polished and formal. Each piece is individual, balancing utilitarian construction with a sculptural, almost folk-like sensibility.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Some marks, scratches and discolouration are present.
Dimensions:
17.72 in W x 19.49 in D x 28.75 in H; Seat height 15.95 in; Seat depth 14.38 in
45 cm W x 49.5 cm D x 73 cm H; Seat height 40.5 cm; Seat depth 36.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
René Prou was one of the leading figures of French decorative arts during the first half of the twentieth century. He began his career as artistic director for the house of Gouffé, where he developed a reputation for refined interiors and exceptional craftsmanship. Over the following decades, Prou received prestigious commissions ranging from luxury ocean liner cabins to the council chamber of the Comptoir d’Escompte de Paris, while also serving as director and professor at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs.
Prou’s work became known for its elegant curved forms, decorative restraint, and innovative treatment of metal, particularly through his “zinzin maison” technique, which gave metal a flexibility and visual softness similar to rattan. This set of three armchairs attributed to René Prou reflects these qualities associated with his work. The chairs are built around slender blackened metal frames that curve fluidly to form the legs, arm supports, and decorative details beneath the seats. Rather than concealing the structure beneath upholstery, the metalwork remains fully visible and becomes central to the composition. The flowing lines introduce rhythm and movement throughout the design. In contrast, the upholstered seat and back cushions are restrained, covered in a neutral fabric that balances the delicacy of the frame with a greater sense of solidity and comfort. The cylindrical arm cushions further soften the composition while reinforcing the linear direction of the armrests.
Despite the decorative quality of the metalwork, the chairs retain a remarkable sense of openness due to the thinness of the structure and the spacing between elements. These armchairs carry a light, and almost architectural presence, where the curves of the metal frame create visual movement without overwhelming the composition. The result is a set that functions equally well as practical seating and as sculptural interior pieces.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The armchairs have recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. 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:
21.65 in W x 27.36 in D x 38.19 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 18.90 in; Arm height 24.81 in
55 cm W x 69.5 cm D x 97 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 63 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The postwar decades in France marked a flourishing period for modernist design, showcasing the artistry of functional forms and skilled craftsmanship. Furniture from this era embraced clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and leaned on the honesty of materials to reflect the post-war ethos of practicality and renewal.
This set stands as a timeless testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and distinctive style of french creators, forever influencing worldwide design. Each chair is meticulously crafted from rich, warm wood, showcasing the natural beauty of the grain while emphasizing a balance of sturdy yet graceful proportions. The seats are made from woven rush, offering comfort without sacrificing the chair's sculptural integrity. To complete the look, the chairs feature stretchers between the legs, on one hand adding to the strong, angular look, while on the other hand ensuring durability for decades to come. Their proportions and carefully balanced lines speak to the French rural aesthetic, where practicality met understated artistry, combining comfort and rustic charm in an iconic 1960s manner.
With their clean edges, dark colour and straight-forward look, the design of these dining chairs is understated, yet undeniably bold, making them a timeless addition to a room. From bringing a touch of elegance to commanding visual attention, this set adds the character needed in a space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
18.1 in W × 17.7 in D × 36.4 in H; Seat height 19.3 in; Seat depth 16.7 in
46 cm W x 45 cm D x 92.5 cm H; Seat height 49 cm; Seat depth 42.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This stunning set of dining chairs embodies an era of bold, sculptural furniture with a focus on comfort and organic form. Postmodernism in the 1980s embraced a playful approach to design, making this set not only functional but also a statement that serves to inject energy and individuality into any interior.
The design of these chairs emphasises the uniqueness and originality of handmade objects and features stylised, organic forms. The sense of balance between the straight and curved lines of the structures is outstanding. The chairs’ construction leaves plenty of open space, emphasising the airy feel and every single line of the design. This airiness is further highlighted by the upholstered seats that are carefully crafted in a patterned fabric, pairing very well with the solid wood frames. The legs have an overlapping shape between them, giving them a “grounded” look. With a sense for incredible craftsmanship and endless passion for innovation, these chairs capture the essence of the 1980s design ethos, where function and form merge with whimsy. The bold, sculptural form allows this set to stand as both art and furniture, perfect for modern interiors that value individuality and creative expression.
This set is equally at home in a modern or eclectic interior, offering enduring elegance and comfort. The combination of craftsmanship, natural materials, and timeless proportions makes them a standout set to balance any table.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the item has some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seats have 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:
23.03 in W x 21.26 in D x 48.62 in H; Seat height 19.09 in; Seat depth 18.70 in; Arm height 25.78 in
58.5 cm W x 54 cm D x 123.5 cm H; Seat height 48.5 cm; Seat depth 47.5 cm; Arm height 65.5 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Originating in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Arts and Crafts movement rejected industrial excess in favour of craftsmanship and functional clarity. By the 1920s and 30s, these principles had spread across Europe, inspiring makers to reinterpret these ideals with local traditions and materials.
The design of these chairs boasts a simple yet well-thought-out structure, crafted from quality wood. It holds a natural expression with its airy design, which is dominated by the beauty of the material. The openness of the chairs is highlighted by the two slender slats of the backrest and the slim legs. The straightforward look makes the pair stand out with a timeless appeal. Beautifully woven, the rush is placed neatly within the frames of the seats. The two back legs, which tilt gently, continue a line into the backrests, adding to the visual appeal. The wood grain of each chair is wonderfully unique, while they still projects cohesion due to the material’s warm-toned hues and colours. The smooth, clean finish of the chairs brings forth a refined and elegant appearance into the space they occupy.
Wood has never gone out of style, and pieces with an emphasis on a natural look are only gaining popularity today. These chairs are equally striking standing alone, or as part of an interior with a medley of styles.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs are delicate and not suitable for daily use.
Dimensions:
17.13 in W x 17.52 in D x 34.06 in H; Seat height 17.13 in; Seat depth 14.57 in
43.5 cm W x 44.5 cm D x 86.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 37 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eu
Dining room chair “S34” has the playful and majestic characteristics typical of Pierre Chapo's emblematic creations. Asymmetrical, yet perfectly balanced, this model belongs with the designer’s famous “Sfax” table.
The cross-legged base corresponds to the design of the backrest, which is slightly offset from the middle. Made from Chapo's favourite wood, elm, this chair has a rustic style with architectural precision, which comes as no surprise, as Pierre Chapo trained as an architect in Paris. The slightly more rounded edges show that this chair is an older, authentic version of the “S34” model. The cross-legged base matches the back that is slightly placed out of the middle, enhancing the masterful asymmetry that defines the design. The overall look is very sleek, and combined with details like the visible joinery and the solid wooden structure, this chair’s perfectly imperfect, which is a conscious, Chapo-esque ideal.
Chapo's work originated by means of special commissions that could later be adapted to universal needs. Chapo was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's balanced lines, Corbusier's research on proportions and Bauhaus. The three principles that motivated Pierre Chapo were material, form, and function. He measured his furniture by means of golden ratio and used elm wood as his preferred material. This chair is a beautiful example of his ideals in a material form.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
15.74 in W x 21.25 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 16.73 in
40 cm W x 54 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 42.5 cm
About the designer:
Pierre Chapo, born in Paris in July 1927, was initially interested in becoming a professional painter. However, after a chance meeting with a shipbuilder who introduced him to wood and wood crafts, Chapo changed his focus and decided to study architectural studies at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
After graduation, Chapo and his wife, the sculptor and painter Nicole Lormier, started to travel extensively through Scandinavia and Central America. Among the many places the couple visited was the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright in Taliesin West. A visit that had a lasting influence on Chapo’s future work and designs. Read more about Pierre Chapo. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Mid-century Scandinavian dining chairs were often designed with a focus on proportion, and material quality, rather than decoration. Designers such as Torbjørn Afdal worked within this approach, producing furniture that balanced craftsmanship with a modern aesthetic. His work for Vamo Møbelfabrik in the 1960s reflects this direction, combining a wooden construction with carefully considered lines and detailing. The emphasis was placed on durability and comfort, while maintaining a light visual presence suited to domestic interiors.
This set of six model “113” dining chairs by Afdal features slender wooden frames and clearly structured forms. Each chair is built from solid wood, with legs that taper slightly and connect through horizontal stretchers to reinforce stability. The construction is minimal, with lightweight appearance, allowing the chairs to sit comfortably around a dining table without feeling heavy or visibly crowding a room. The backrests feature a series of gently curved horizontal slats along the frame. These elements introduce a layered rhythm while maintaining the openness of the design. This balance between straight lines and gentle shaping gives the chairs both clarity and comfort. The seats are upholstered in a dark leather that contrasts with the wood, both in a textural and in a chromatic way. The combination of mediums is common in Scandinavian design, where natural materials are used together to create warmth without excess detail.
This set of chairs demonstrate a controlled and practical approach to furniture. The design relies on proportion, material contrast, and careful construction rather than ornament. The set works well for everyday use, maintaining a sleek, elegant character, while not sacrificing their unique mid-century look.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. The items have some scratches. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the items may have marks and discolouration. This set comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
18.89 in W x 22.04 in D x 35.62 in H; Seat height 17.71 in; Seat depth 18.11 in
48 cm W x 56 cm D x 90.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Seat depth 46 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Woven rush is a long-standing technique, originally used in rural furniture for its durability and breathability. By the mid-20th century, this traditional construction was often paired with simplified, geometric wooden frames, resulting in pieces that feel both familiar and modern. Rather than being purely decorative, the approach is practical, combining natural materials and a straightforward construction - as this set of chairs demonstrates.
Crafted with precision and showcasing high-quality woodworking techniques, this set of four chairs stands out through its solid wooden frames and panel-back construction. The structure is strong and grounded, with straight legs and horizontal stretchers reinforcing the base. The backs are formed by geometrical panels framed within the edges of the backrest, giving the chairs an architectural feel. The woven rush seats introduce both texture and function. The woven surface introduces an organic feel that contrasts with the more rigid wooden frame, adding visual depth without relying on ornament. At the same time, the material is practical, offering a firm but comfortable seating experience.
The chairs are solid and robust without feeling overwhelming, making them the perfect addition to a dining space. They work just as well in a more traditional setting as they do in a cleaner, modern interior, which is exactly why this type of chair has stayed relevant for so long.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. Minor stains on the wood. Due to the nature of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
18.50 in W x 18.89 in D x 36.02 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 17.32 in
47 cm W x 48 cm D x 91.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 44 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Few forms reveal the hand of the maker as directly as carved wooden furniture. Throughout the mid-twentieth century, a number of European designers and artisans rejected the increasingly industrial character of furniture production in favour of pieces that celebrated irregularity, uniqueness, and the expressive qualities of solid wood.
This set of five chairs occupies a space between functional furniture and sculpture, drawing inspiration from traditions of folk art, and the organic forms found in nature. The maker of this set embraced rough textures, asymmetry, and forms that appeared almost primitive, showing Brutalist inspiration. These chairs are striking through their plank backs, each carved from a substantial piece of wood that features intentionally irregular contours. Rather than concealing tool marks, the surfaces preserve them, creating a richly textured appearance that gives each chair a distinct personality. The broad backrests rise tall above the seats, lending the set a powerful presence, while the tapering widths and organic outlines prevent the composition from feeling rigid. The backs continue down to the ground, creating a tripod base together with two slender front legs. The warm patina of the wood accentuates every carved depression and undulation, allowing light to animate the surface and reveal the depth of the craftsmanship involved. Despite their unconventional appearance, these chairs balance visual drama with functionality.
Gathered around a dining table, this set creates an atmosphere that feels both elemental and sophisticated. The silhouettes ensure a strong visual impact even when not in use, while the material choice and construction give them an enduring authenticity.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the dining chairs have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
16.53 in W x 18.11 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 14.96 in
42 cm W x 46 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 38 cm