Pair of Armchairs in Ponyskin, Europe First half of the 20th Century
Pair of Armchairs in Ponyskin, Europe First half of the 20th Century
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
During its heyday, Art Deco represented luxury, glamour, exuberance and faith in social and technological progress. The movement peaked in popularity in the first half of the 20th century, around the 1930s, spreading across Europe and the United States up to the start of World War II. Art Deco designs featured rare, expensive, innovative materials and exquisite craftsmanship.
In line with the Art Deco movement, these chairs illustrate the bold, rich and luxurious aesthetic of the era. Before giving way to mid-century modernism and its focus on function over form, Art Deco pieces coupled geometry and craftsmanship to arrive at elegantly impressive additions to their interiors. The highlight of this pair is the curved shape of the wooden armrests, which dictates the chairs’ silhouette while ensuring both visual appeal and durability. Upholstered in black ponyskin, the chairs gain their quiet luxury through material rather than embellishment. The hide’s soft sheen and natural irregularities lend depth to the geometry of the frame, while its tone enhances the overall sense of comfort. Ponyskin is often (but not always) made from cowhide which, unlike other types of leather, retains the original hair. Furthermore, the pair features beautiful architectural legs - the lines are crisp and elegant, aiding the stability and comfort. Together, the wood and hide establish a dialogue between texture and form: one smooth, one tactile, both grounded in natural beauty.
These chairs symbolise an era of sophistication and luxury, and their enduring popularity is a testament to the allure of early 20th century design. They have weight, but not heaviness, and bring atmosphere simply by existing in a space. In today's world, where mass-produced furniture dominate the market, these chairs stand out as symbols of authenticity and character, thus making the perfect addition to any interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. Minor dents. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have recently been reupholstered in premium ponyskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.13 in W x 35.43 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 12.99 in; Seat depth 22.83 in; Arm height 22.83 in
74 cm W x 90 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 33 cm; Seat depth 58 cm; Arm height 58 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Wim den Boon was a Dutch designer and architect associated with the post-war modernist movement in the Netherlands. After studying interior design at the Academy of Fine Arts in The Hague, he worked alongside artists like Hein Stolle and Pierre Kleykamp to contribute to a number of important post-war interiors, including projects for Schiphol Airport. Den Boon later established himself independently in The Hague, where he designed furniture characterised by restrained compositions, careful spatial treatment, and a preference for unadorned everyday materials.
Influences from De Stijl and Scandinavian modernism remained visible throughout his work, particularly in the balance between strict structure and warmth. This lounge chair reflects that sensibility through its reduced oak construction and tactile ponyskin upholstery. The frame is composed of cylindrical supports and straight horizontal rails, creating a clear geometric outline around the upholstered body. The proportions are low and generous, giving the piece a relaxed, grounded posture. The seat and backrest form a wide lounging space upholstered entirely in champagne-coloured ponyskin. The material introduces a textured surface, giving the otherwise minimal form a sense of movement and depth. Still, the oak remains visible throughout the design, outlining the silhouette and through its slim slats it prevents the chair from appearing overly heavy. The tilt of the backrest softens the strict geometry and contributes to the lounge-like comfort of the piece.
Den Boon was part of the generation of Dutch designers who helped shape post-war modernism in the Netherlands through a restrained and architectural approach to furniture. This chair is proof of his talent. It feels architectural in structure, yet tactile and warm in appearance, reflecting the balance that made Dutch modernist furniture so distinctive during the period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lounge chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The piece has recently been reupholstered in premium ponyskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
25.79 in W x 34.26 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 14.97 in; Seat depth 20.67 in
65.5 cm W x 87 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm