A Pair of "Penguin" Armchairs by Louis van Teeffelen for WéBé, The Netherlands 1960s

A Pair of "Penguin" Armchairs by Louis van Teeffelen for WéBé, The Netherlands 1960s

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

In the mid-century design era, often a piece of furniture would combine only two materials or colours – creating tension and harmony without fuss or superfluous ornaments, and these armchairs are perfect examples of this sentiment.

This exceptional pair, created by the renowned Dutch designer Louis van Teeffelen for WéBé, embody the essence of the mid-century modern movement with a distinct, sculptural flair. Familiarly referred to as the "Penguin" armchairs, the design is inspired by the organic and fluid shapes of nature, with a backrest that resembles the graceful curve of a penguin's wings. The chairs are expertly crafted from warm, rich wood, a hallmark of mid-century furniture, and feature finely executed curves and smooth transitions between the arms, seat, and back. The design emphasizes comfort and functionality, with wide cushioned seats and a slightly reclined backrest that provides excellent support. The wooden frame, which has been skillfully shaped to create an almost seamless look, adds an elegant and natural touch to any room. The faux leather upholstery enhances the striking visual appeal, ensuring the chairs not only serve as functional seating but as statement pieces within a living room or lounge space. With their signature fluid lines and sculptural presence, these "Penguin" armchairs combine the refined simplicity of mid-century modernism with an inviting, human-centric design.

The overall design is a piece of art that exudes both sophistication and comfort, offering a timeless blend of aesthetics and craftsmanship that remains highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts alike. Their enduring popularity underscores their status as iconic examples of mid-20th century Dutch furniture design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches and marks. These chairs come with their original artificial leather or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:

28.74 in W x 26.37 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 17.51 in; Seat depth 19.29 in; Arm height 25.98 in

73 cm W x 67 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 44.5 cm; Seat depth 49 cm; Arm height 66 cm

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Illum Wikkelsø was a recognisable figure of Danish seating design in the post-war decades, known for creating furniture that combined sculptural silhouettes with a strong emphasis on comfort. Working throughout the 1950s and 1960s with manufacturers such as Søren Willadsen, Wikkelsø developed lounge chairs and sofas that softened the stricter geometry of earlier modernism through curved lines. His designs often relied on exposed wood, generous upholstery, and carefully balanced proportions, allowing seating to feel visually substantial without becoming heavy.

Model “110” reflects this approach through its dramatic winged silhouette and restrained material palette. The chair is upholstered in black leather that wraps continuously around the high back, seat, and armrests, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the form. The backrest rises upward into pronounced side panels that connect the wings to the armrests. The sides curve gently forward, creating a protective and enveloping shape around the sitter. These extended sides visually frame the head and shoulders. The leather surface contributes to the overall character of the piece: its subtle texture catches light differently across the curved sections, giving depth to the large upholstered planes. In contrast to the dark upholstery, the chair rests on a solid wooden base with angled legs that introduce warmth and visual lightness. The exposed wood creates a clear separation between the upholstered body and the floor.

The balance between softness and structure is central to the success of this design. The chair carries the commanding presence associated with high-back lounge seating, yet the flowing transitions between its elements prevent it from feeling rigid. Wikkelsø’s ability to merge comfort with sculptural clarity is especially evident here, making the model equally compelling as functional seating and as a statement piece within an interior.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The chair comes with its original leather that has developed a natural patina over time. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

29.93 in W x 35.04 in D x 35.44 in H; Seat height 14.57 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 21.66 in

76 cm W x 89 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 55 cm

Leather and Lacquered Metal Armchair by Cees Braakman for Pastoe, the Netherlands 1960s

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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur

Born in Utrecht in 1917, Cees Braakman spent most of his career shaping the identity of the renowned furniture manufacturer, Pastoe. He joined the company at a young age and later became its central designer and manager. Following a formative trip to the United States in 1947, where he encountered the work of Charles and Ray Eames and the innovative production methods of Herman Miller, he began developing furniture that combined modern construction techniques with a distinctly Dutch sense of restraint.

Braakman’s designs from the 1950s and 1960s are characterised by clean lines, functional clarity, and carefully balanced proportions, qualities clearly visible in this chair. The design showcases a beautiful interplay between the slender metal construction and natural materials. The black lacquered frame forms a precise architectural structure, outlining the chair with crisp lines. Rather than appearing overly industrial, however, the frame is softened by the introduction of rich cognac-coloured leather upholstery and wooden armrests. The seat and backrest are generously proportioned, creating a comfortable visual weight that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the supporting structure. The warm tone of the leather introduces depth and character, while its smooth surface accentuates the chair’s geometry. Particularly striking is the way the wooden armrests are integrated within the metal frame, lending the design an added sense of refinement.

The balance between comfort and structural clarity lies at the heart of Braakman’s work, and this armchair demonstrates that philosophy exceptionally well. Its restrained palette and clean silhouette move it past a simple a seating piece, reflecting the Dutch modernist belief that thoughtful design can elevate everyday furniture into something practical, and visually compelling.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the metal, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been reupholstered in a premium leather. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

24.21 in W x 22.44 in D x 30.71 in H; Seat height 19.29 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 25.20 in

61.5 cm W x 57 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 49 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 64 cm

Green Leather Armchair by Folke Ohlsson (Attr.), Sweden Mid-20th Century

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Mid century lounge chairs often explore the balance between structure and comfort, especially through the combination of solid wood and upholstered seating. Designers in this period - like Folke Ohlsson - moved away from fully rigid, heavy forms and allowed open construction to contribute to the overall visual impression.

This armchair follows that approach through its use of the wooden frame and upholstered body. The structure is defined by a sculptural wooden base that wraps around the lower part of the chair, offering a sturdy base and visual outline to the piece. The legs are thin and slightly angled, giving the chair a stable stance without overpowering the silhouette. Above, the seat and backrest are upholstered in green leather, with a cushion and headrest that create a layered and comfortable look. The leather’s colour complements the warm tone of the wood. At the same time, the material softens the geometry of the frame through its smooth and sleek look. What makes this piece stand out is that it balances comfort and structure, in line with timeless mid-century modernism. This model can be easily styled in a reading nook or as an accent chair in a living room, offering both comfort and a strong visual presence.

Folke Ohlsson was one of the first Swedish designers who managed to bring “Swedish Modern” design to the United States’ market successfully. According to the story, when Ohlsson arrived in the United States, he took his suitcase and cardboard to hotels all over the country inviting salesmen, department stores, and decorators to view his miniature designs and watch as he disassembled and reassembled his chair design. He quickly became notorious for his patented “knock-down” construction that reduced shipping and storage costs and helped to make the Swedish company Dux a household name in the USA.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The item has recently been reupholstered in premium leather. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

34.64 in W x 32.28 in D x 36.22 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 18.89 in; Arm height 19.88 in

88 cm W x 82 cm D x 92 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 50.5 cm

Pair of Armchairs with Braided Leather Backs, Europe Mid-20th Century

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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur

Saying mid-century modernism had a revival would be a serious understatement. In reality, the designs have never gone out of style completely, especially in Europe. Mid-20th century pieces are classics thanks to their expert craftsmanship, their visual impact, and the material quality. This armchair pair showcases this timelessness with their modern form.‎

Without any heavy ornamentation, the focus falls on the natural materials used to craft this pair of chairs. The authenticity is celebrated rather than disguised or embellished. This choice of wood and leather not only aligns with the organic principles of mid-century modernism, but it also contributes to the chairs' overall longevity in both form and function. It is evident that the maker of these chairs possessed great talent in cabinetmaking, and used high-quality materials that became even more appealing with the decades gone by. This is visible in the beautiful patina of the braided leather backrests that resemble a checkerboard. This element adds a touch of individuality and artistry, setting the chairs apart from the mass-produced furniture of the time. Moreover, the sitting comfort is increased by the upholstered cushions. The textured upholstery of the seat cushion beautifully complements the frame. The chair embodies comfort and cosiness through the mix of proportions and expertly selected materials.

Functionally and visually, this armchair pair demonstrates how mid-20th century European design could bridge tradition and modernity without sacrificing comfort or structural clarity. It is well suited to domestic living rooms, or quiet seating nooks while its understated modernism makes it versatile alongside both mid-century and contemporary interiors.

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, some marks and scratches are present. The items have recently been reupholstered in-house. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

20.7 in W × 22.2 in D × 29.1 in H; Seat height: 13.0 in; Seat depth: 16.5 in; Arm height: 21.9 in

52.5 cm W x 56.5 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 33 cm; Seat depth 42 cm; Arm height 55.5 cm