Nordic Modern Lounge Chairs in Mongolian Shearling, Finland ca 1950s
Nordic Modern Lounge Chairs in Mongolian Shearling, Finland ca 1950s
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
From early on, a dialogue with nature became the prime force in the ongoing evolution of Finnish design. This relationship with nature was much in evidence in early 20th century Finnish design, which actively expanded on the metaphors and motifs therein. This stunning chair revolves around high-quality materials, comfort, and the mastery of the era’s European cabinetmakers.
The design is focused on the aesthetics of modernism whilst employing the exquisite qualities of the upholstery. In many ways this chair transcends the word ‘modern’ thanks to its unique look. The outstanding look is the result of the brilliant pairing of materials. The solid wood structures’ smooth lines stand out even under the highly textural shearling while also accentuating the individuality of the upholstery. The soft fibres of the lightweight, curly Mongolian shearling drape beautifully over the lounge chairs, while the light greyish colour provides a lot of depth. As opposed to traditional shearling, Mongolian lamb/shearling (also known as shag) is a long, flouncy fur celebrated for its softness and luxurious volume. As it can be expected from Nordic pieces, functionality, and comfort are still kept at the core of the design. This is especially evident in the gently curved, enveloping backs and the tapered legs. The lacquered solid wood legs’ dark colour and smoothness further highlight the upholstery, creating a balanced look. Thanks to its visual qualities, mainly the shearling’s lush texture and colour, this pair of infinitely cosy lounge chairs can also be used as accent pieces to break the restrained aesthetic of any minimalistic space.
The use of exquisite materials, the combination of crafts with industrial production, and the obvious influence of the organic in Finnish design all created a stir of excitement during the 20th century. This excitement carries on today thanks to pieces such as these exceptional lounge chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in Mongolian shearling. 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:
30.31 in W x 34.25 in D x 30.7 in H; Seat height 18.11 in
77 cm W x 87 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 46 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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