Pair of Haagse School Armchairs by Bas Van Pelt, The Netherlands ca 1930s

















Pair of Haagse School Armchairs by Bas Van Pelt, The Netherlands ca 1930s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Bas van Pelt’s progressive designs were, in many ways, ahead of their era. The Dordrecht-born designer’s furniture models are quite rare, a few are preserved in the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam for modern art, contemporary art, and design. This pair of rare chairs are testimonies to the less talked about, but brilliant era of early Dutch modernism.
This elegant pair of chairs embody the distinctive design principles of the Haagse School (The Hague School) movement, which emerged in the Netherlands during the early 20th century. Renowned for its blend of modernist and traditional influences, this style emphasizes clean lines, functional form, and quality craftsmanship. One thing that connects Haagse School furniture is the appreciation of beautiful, quality wood and artisanal woodworking. These armchairs have stunning solid wood frames with geometric and symmetrical angles, most apparent in the square backs and legs. While chairs like these are generally more utilitarian, this pair still manages to look cosy and warm thanks to the upholstered seats. The fabric not only boasts an eye-catching colour but also offers a tactile experience, thus the pair is as comfortable as it is stylish.Additionally, the woodwork, with its smooth finish and natural grain, contrasts beautifully with the plush red upholstery, creating a balanced, yet visually striking appearance.
This pair of armchairs is a rare find that speaks to the elegance and artistry of the early 20th century. Whether used to enhance a modern space with a nod to the past or as a statement piece in a period room, these chairs promise to bring warmth and beauty into your home.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned and reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
22.83 in W x 24.40 in D x 35.82 in H; Seat height 20.86 in; Seat depth 18.89 in; Arm height 28.74 in
58 cm W x 62 cm D x 91 cm H; Seat height 53 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 73 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Bas van Pelt (1900–1945) was a Dutch furniture and interior designer whose work combined traditional craftsmanship with the principles of early modernism. While Van Pelt's creative work was primarily dominated by the Hague School, this armchair is the result of his more mature design period, characterised by natural materials, in order to create a friendly and inviting appearance that combines the warmth of solid oak with the distinctive texture of woven rush.
The construction of this model is simple at its core, but thanks to certain details, it is a playful representation of early Dutch modernism. While made of solid oak, this armchair has an open feel to it thanks to the horizontal spaces on the back that divide the three rush panels. The tall, slightly inclined backrest is framed by two straight wooden uprights, creating a strong vertical outline that contrasts with the more fluid shape of the armrests. The curved lines of the arms contrast nicely with the straight lines of the frame and clearly show wonderful craftsmanship. Each armrest extends outward in a gentle wave, giving the chair a particularly individual character. The rush weaving on the back adds textural interest, bringing the appealing roughness of nature to the design. Its closely arranged vertical strands create a warm, sandy surface, beautifully complemented by the oak's rich brown colour and the similar tone of the upholstery. The legs and stretchers are simple in their design, serving a primarily structural role and allowing the rush weaving and the wooden construction to stand out. The legs are connected by a gently curved wooden rail beneath the seat, while the rear supports continue naturally from the backrest. Thanks to the well-chosen proportions and the combination of natural materials, this armchair provides great comfort while maintaining a remarkable appearance.
Bas van Pelt's progressive designs were, in many ways, ahead of his time. The Dordrecht-born designer's furniture models are quite rare, with examples preserved in the collection of the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. Furniture pieces like this easy chair stand out through their unique textures and materials, as well as their classic charm. Its generous backrest and comfortable seat make it particularly suitable for a living room, library or reading area, where the craftsmanship can be appreciated from every angle.
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 wood, the item has minor marks, scratches, dents and discolouration. The seat 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:
24.8 in W x 29.13 in D x 38.18 in H; Seat height 14.96 in; Seat depth 22.44 in; Arm height 22.83 in
63 cm W x 74 cm D x 97 cm H; Seat height 38 cm; Seat depth 57 cm; Arm height 58 cm