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

Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this “Radio” chair showcases.

Designed in the first half of the 20th century, this armchair possesses a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The chair displays a clearly defined wooden frame with a neatly upholstered seat. The sleek wooden frame offers a beautiful contrast to the upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. With these characteristics, the chair makes for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of their beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of this armchair as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this armchair model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This chair not only serves as functional furniture but as a timeless work of art, showcasing the elegance and innovation of the era.

The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this armchair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers - and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success these collaborations resulted in.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair has recently been reconditioned. The wood has some scratches and stains. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the chair may have marks and discolouration. The chair comes with its original upholstery or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

22.44 in W x 23.23 in D x 37.99 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 17.52 in; Arm height 26.77 in

57 cm W x 59 cm D x 96.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 44.5 cm; Arm height 68 cm

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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur

The “Oskar” armchair was designed in 1939; a busy year for Carl Malmsten as he also participated in the New York World Fair. It was at this fair where the expression “Swedish Modern” was coined, but Malmsten remained a traditionalist, mainly concerned with comfort in the home.

As with so many of Malmsten’s pieces of furniture, Oskar was modelled on an earlier design. This pair belongs to Carl Malmsten's earlier works, and the structures are made of solid pine from Swedish forests. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frames are expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at their core. While these armchairs may seem less “Malmstenesque”, they already have the gentle curves that defined his later designs. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The gently bent backrests are tufted with dark yellow stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. The structures are supported by the tapered, solid pine legs that add an organic touch to the design. This chair model is reminiscent of the furnishings of the sitting room of Ulriksdal Palace, which was given to the crown prince and princess, Gustav and Louise, by the Swedish people in 1923. Malmsten was commissioned to create the decor for the room, and the Oscar armchair may have been a template for this period and perhaps that is why Carl Malmsten gave the chair a royal-sounding name.

The company known today as O.H. Sjögren was established as early as the 1870s. Carl Malmsten, who had hitherto only produced the most exclusive and unique furniture for a limited and affluent clientele, sought manufacturers who were able to produce his furniture in larger volumes without compromising the high demands he placed on craftsmanship and quality. He chose O.H. Sjögren, and together they developed and marketed the many items of upholstered furniture that have become classics today.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently 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:

28.74 in W x 29.92 in D x 37.4 in H; Seat height 16.33 in

73 cm W x 76 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm

About the Designer:

Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.

In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.

Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.

Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today.

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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur

Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.

Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.

The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:

19.29 in W x 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in

49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm

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

This “Lilla Eva” model is from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.

This chair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of “Lilla Eva” chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chair still gives the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered body elevates the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine symmetrically arranged buttons.

The upholstery is a premium brown fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. The cross stitches give this chair a modern flair, contrasting stylishly to the fabric. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the body. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the chair may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has been reupholstered recently in 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:

27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in

70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm

About the Designer:

Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.

She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.

"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."

Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.

Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.

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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur

The “Stora Eva” chair model is from the timeless and iconic Paradiset Collection from the Triva Series, which was created in the 1950s by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time at Nordiska Kompaniet. Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and because of her uncompromising attitude, she became one of Sweden’s most renowned mid-century furniture designers.

Hörlin-Holmquist once remarked "I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle, and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in” and these armchairs are an elegant example of that sentiment. Characterised by the best qualities of mid-century design, these chairs can be incorporated into both contemporary and traditional interiors, lending itself to a timeless, universal appeal. The elegant lines and shape of the backrest create a striking silhouette. The tufted buttons on the backrest serve as the only form of ornamentation, and add to the visual richness of the model. The soft white upholstery is complemented by the tapered stained wood legs. Tilted in the back, the slim legs have a classically modern look. The "Stora Eva" model expresses a particular feeling of warmth and comfort with its friendly and rounded form. Standing at the intersection of form and function, this is a timeless model that will never go out of style.

The craftsmanship displayed in these armchairs are a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the mid 20th century, reflecting the technical skill and artistic vision of both Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist and Nordiska Kompaniet.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor scratches on the wood. The chairs have been recently 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:

28.34 in W x 32.67 in D x 38.38 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 18.70 in; Arm height 22.44 in

72 cm W x 83 cm D x 97.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 47.5 cm; Arm height 57 cm

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

The ‘Oskar’ armchair was designed in 1939, the same year that Carl Malmsten participated in the New York World’s Fair. It was there that the expression “Swedish Modern” was coined, but Malmsten remained a traditionalist, mainly concerned with comfort in the home.

As with so many of Malmsten’s pieces of furniture, “Oskar” was modelled on an earlier design – his own or from previous generations. This armchair belongs to Carl Malmsten's earlier works, and the structure is traditionally made of solid pine from Swedish forests. As can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frame is expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at its core. While this armchair may seem less “Malmstenesque”, it already has the gentle curves that defined Malmsten’s later designs. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The gently bent backrest is tufted with dark yellow stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery, both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. The structure is supported by the tapered, solid pine legs that add an organic touch to the design.

The design is reminiscent of the furnishings of the sitting room of Ulriksdal Palace, which was given to the crown prince and princess, Gustav and Louise, by the Swedish people in 1923. Malmsten was commissioned to create the decor for the room, and the ‘Oskar’ armchair may have been a template for this period, and perhaps that is why Carl Malmsten gave the chair a royal-sounding name. The company known today as O.H. Sjögren was established as early as the 1870s. Carl Malmsten, who had hitherto only produced the most exclusive and unique furniture for a limited and affluent clientele, sought manufacturers who were able to produce his furniture in larger volumes without compromising the high demands he placed on craftsmanship and quality. He chose O.H. Sjögren, and together they developed and marketed the many items of upholstered furniture that have become classics today.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:

28.74 in W x 29.92 in D x 37.4 in H; Seat height 16.33 in

73 cm W x 76 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm

About the Designer:

Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.

In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local materials and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.

Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.

Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today.

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

This beautiful barrel armchair is an example of Swedish mid-century design as well as outstanding craftsmanship with a quality that honours the materials and their users. The period from roughly the 1940s through the 1960s was a high point for Scandinavian furniture makers, and this chair shows why.

Åby Möbelfabrik factory was located in Tjureda parish, in Sweden’s Växjö municipality. The company primarily manufactured pine furniture. The chair’s shape and construction show the signs of the master craftsmanship of Åby Möbelfabrik as the robust, barrel-like body has a rounded construction, with the back flowing into the arms to achieve an enveloping, comforting experience for the user. The wood’s grain and pattern is very appealing throughout the design of this chair, which adds an organic touch to the design. This piece displays a beautiful contrast between the light wood frame’s colour and the elegant off-white fabric of the cushions. The upholstery is just as much a decorative element as the wooden structure with the two materials pairing exceptionally well.

Barrel chairs are generally considered among the best accent chair types as their unique shapes immediately draw the eye. Simply styled and elegant had always been mid-century designers’ speciality, and there is no better example than this pair of unique barrel chairs.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been reconditioned. Due to age, the item has some dents, scratches, and discolouration. The cushion has 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:

21.26 in W x 18.70 in D x 30.32 in H; Seat height 18.90 in; Seat depth 17.32 in

54 cm W x 47.5 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 48 cm; Seat depth 44 cm

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

Mid-century modern is an interior style which championed notions of functionality and simplicity in design. This 1940s winged armchair is a great representation of the craftsmanship and quality of Swedish cabinetmakers, characterized by the best qualities of mid-century design.

This lounge chair design in many ways transcends the word ‘modern’, as it can be incorporated into contemporary and traditional interiors, lending itself to a universal appeal. The crisp lines “disappear” into the bouclé upholstery, resulting in a cosy impression. This is further enhanced by the enveloping back and round armrests for the ultimate lounging experience. The chair’s generous proportions and upholstery provide great sitting comfort, supported by the solid wood tapered legs. The upholstery dominates the look, and in the absence of any ornamentation, the luxurious texture of the material remains the focus.

The chair has recently been reupholstered in a bouclé fabric that is of the highest quality. The quality of the bouclé brings out the shape of this chair, illustrating how the pairing of the work of a skilled cabinetmaker and luxurious materials create exceptional pieces. With a classic look, storied design and solid quality, this Swedish chair shows why the historic movement of mid-century modernism continues to permeate our sense of what’s contemporary.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:

35.43 in W x 36.22 in D x 37.01 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 20.08 in; Arm height 22.83 in

90 cm W x 92 cm D x 94 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 51 cm; Arm height 58 cm

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

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.

This stunning pair of solid walnut armchairs combines elements of classical and modern design with utmost quality. The solid walnut beautifully frames the upholstered bodies, outlining the welcoming silhouette of the chairs. The frames have a stunning curvaceous design, that is visually appealing from all angles. 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 chairs’ yellow chenille upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. The cushions are removeable and reversible, adding to the comfort of the sitter.

Bröderna Andersson, the chairs’ 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 frames, and careful attention so that the last seam is in place, quality is Bröderna Andersson’s word of honour.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some scratches and marks on the wood. The chairs retain their original upholstery 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:

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

81.5 cm W x 82.5 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.

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

Bertil Fridhagen (1905–1993) was one of Sweden's most accomplished furniture designers, trained at Konstfack in Stockholm before becoming chief architect at Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, becoming one of the defining voices of Swedish Modernism. The Aristokrat series, produced by Bröderna Andersson, reflects both Fridhagen's refined design language and the manufacturer's reputation for high-quality upholstered furniture.

The “Aristokrat” armchair is defined by its elegant walnut frame, which wraps around the upholstered body in one continuous, flowing line. Rather than functioning merely as a structural element, the exposed frame becomes a defining visual feature, outlining the chair's rounded silhouette and creating a striking contrast with the soft upholstery. The button-tufted backrest adds depth and texture while gently shaping the seat for comfort, complemented by the arm supports that merge seamlessly into the curved back. A generous loose seat cushion provides seating comfort, while the slightly tapered legs give the chair a lighter appearance despite its proportions. Swedish design prefers colours rooted in nature, muted tones that aren’t overpowering, but still attract the eye naturally. The chairs’ yellow upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. From the smooth flowing curves to the restrained detailing, all elements allow the quality of the materials and craftsmanship to take center stage.

The “Aristokrat” model remains one of Bertil Fridhagen's most recognisable designs, demonstrating how Swedish Modern furniture successfully combined craftsmanship, functionality, and elegant proportions. Its enduring appeal echoes the success of Scandinavian design to this day.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair 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:

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

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

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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur‎

Swedish architect and furniture designer Axel Einar Hjorth served as the lead designer for Sweden’s Nordiska Kompaniet department store from 1926 to 1938. During this time, Hjorth designed the “Sportstugemöbler” series, (which translates to “sports cabin furnishings”) a collection of wooden furniture designed for country homes. The various models in the sportstugemöbler series took their names from the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and famously, Utö.

These Utö chairs were designed in 1932 as part of the collection. Unlike the department store's interiors for floors and villas in the cities, the Utö designs had a simple character with robust and basic shapes in solid pine. Accordingly, the design of these chairs focuses on simple lines and the material itself. Made of pine wood, these chairs are strong, reflecting Hjorth’s principles in which he mixed the ideals of the modernist movement with provincial Swedish traditions. As a result, the design of this set is completely timeless. Each chair demonstrates a conscious construction, where the joinery and fittings related to traditional craftsmanship are emphasized. Dominated by rounded, straight lines, the chairs have spindle backrests and ergonomically carved seats. The form alludes harmony and stability, fitting the summer cabin concept perfectly.

In an international perspective, Hjorth's “sportstugemöbler” series was the forerunner of later pioneering designers such as Charlotte Perriand. It is therefore no surprise that these Utö chairs became part of Swedish and international modernist design history. In their time, the Utö collection may have appeared as pioneering and radical, but today they are viewed as status symbols in interiors of international character.‎

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and stains on the wood. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have scratches and discolouration.

Dimensions:

18.89 in W x 18.3 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 16.92 in

48 cm W x 46.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 43 cm

Literature:

Christian Bjork, Thomas Ekstrom and Eric Ericson, 'Axel Einar Hjorth: Mobelarkitekt', Stockholm, 2009, p.130

About the designer:

Axel Einar Hjorth was born in a small Swedish village named Krokek, just outside Norrköping, on March 7, 1888. At the age of 20, he moved to Stockholm to study architecture and design at the Högre Konstindustriella Skolan.

Although he never graduated, in the 1920s Hjorth started working as a furniture designer for various manufacturers, such as H. Joop & Co., Myrestedt & Stern, Jonssons, and Nordiska Kompaniet. Hjorth’s designs from this period had neoclassical features combined with Swedish Grace. This romantic national style of Sweden was elegant and refined, yet simple. The anniversary exhibition of 1923 in Gothenburg marked the breakthrough of Swedish decorative arts, and made Axel Einar Hjorth a well-respected artist. From October 1926, Hjorth became the chief designer and architect of Nordiska Kompaniet department store in Stockholm. In the 1930s, Hjorth designed a furniture collection out of pine meant for serial production known as Sportstugemöbler (furniture for holiday houses).

Hjorth’s designs, from the luxury of neoclassicism to the severity of functionalism, are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He played a significant role in the development of Swedish society as a whole, and particularly in Swedish industrial art

Today Hjorth is often viewed as a precursor to the modern designs popularized by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Royére, Pierre Chapo, or Josef Frank. Recently, there has been a revival of appreciation for his work, showing his genius in a new light. ~H.

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

The dark wood, the beautiful upholstery, and timeless design in the manner of Erik Bertil Karlén make this rare easy chair a beautiful representation of Swedish mid-century modern design history.

For this model, nature was evidently a great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found. With a tremendous sense of proportion, this chair model is very comfortable and fulfils its task to “serve well” and last for lifetimes. Without any ornamentation, the focus here is on the round, flowing lines of the body and its upholstery. The design has the wingback look with sides that embrace the sitter in a cosy way. On the upper end, the “wings” curve outward, which opens up the design. What makes this model special is how the back and seat form one unit both visually and structurally. This shell-like form has a masterful curve that follows the human body’s shape therefore the chair is very ergonomic. The dark, wooden tapered legs are connected by stretchers on the sides and highlight the body with their understated look. The light upholstery with appealing button tufting provides an elegant look with its textured look and a cosy sitting experience thanks to its softness.

Swedish Modern design is a distinctive style that represents a design philosophy, guided by functionality, simplicity and clean lines. The design of this model is in favour of the user, maintaining the focus on authentic simplicity.

Condition:

In very good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently 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:

28.14 in W x 28.74in D x 33.26 in H; Seat height 16.14 in

71.5 cm W x 73 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm

Literature:

Form: Svenska slöjdföreningens tidskrift, Svenska slöjdföreningen, Stockholm, 1943, p. 87.
Hedqvist, Hedvig & Björk, Christian, "Swedish Modern : En historia om modernismens yttringar i Sverige genom design, inredning och formgivning", Orosdi-Back, 2018, p. 228-229.

About the designer:

Erik Bertil Karlén was born on February 22, 1912 in Sundbyberg, Sweden. He was a Swedish architect and designer. His architecture characterized many areas of Stockholm’s suburbs from the 1940s, 50s and 60s.

After his training as an architect at KTH in the 1930s, Karlén got a job as an architect at Fortifikationsstyrelsen's Kasernbyrå in 1940. One of his major works at this time was designing the buildings for Svea Livgarde in Sörentorp, Solna municipality, which was completed in 1946. He gave the buildings a simple but careful architectural style using predominantly red brick as the facade material. Some had brick in combination with dark-glazed wood panels.

As many of his contemporary Scandinavian architects, Karlén also designed furniture, mostly seating models. His designs however, remain very rare to this day.