Pair of “Pele” Lounge Chairs by Esko Pajamies for Lepokalusto, Finland 1970s
Pair of “Pele” Lounge Chairs by Esko Pajamies for Lepokalusto, Finland 1970s
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This rare pair of “Pele” lounge chairs by Finnish designer Esko Pajamies is, without a doubt, his most stunning chair design. It is seldom we see a chair model and immediately recognise it, but Pajamies managed to design such a piece. His unconventional design was strongly characterised by durability and functionality as well as insightful technical solutions.
In Finland, the 1970s saw the use of new materials like plastic, synthetics, and fibreglass being combined with advances in manufacturing technologies, allowing designers to expand their range of colours and forms in mass production. However, this lounge chair model still gives preference to natural materials, primarily to its solid oak structure. The wooden frame provides a firm base with rounded edges. Undeniably, the most eye-catching and distinctive element of this design is the way in which the seat and the back legs of the armchairs are formed by one elongated piece of wood. The ergonomic design with the bent backrest, wide armrests, and upholstered cushions make this pair of lounge chairs exceptionally comfortable. It therefore comes as no surprise, that this model first gained popularity as a TV chair for homes. Later it became a popular choice for fireplace rooms as well as public spaces, similarly to several other designs of Pajamies.
This model was manufactured by the Finnish furniture company, Lahden Lepokalusto Oy in the 1970s. The Lahti-based company has been furnishing public spaces for almost 70 years, and gained worldwide recognition through the iconic furniture designs of Professor Yrjö Kukkapuro and later, Esko Pajamies.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The cushions have 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:
92 cm W x 94 cm D x 88 cm H
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Finnish designer, Carin Lisa Johansson-Pape, was among the most significant Finnish designers in the second half of the 1900s. She designed made for Stockmann and participated in New York’s World Fair of 1939 and the Milan Triennial IX. The 1940s marked a golden era for interior design, amidst a booming economy and a newfound sense of optimism. Designers like Johansson-Pape sought to create furniture that felt both modern and human, moving away from the stark metal and glass of the machine age toward objects that could bring warmth and comfort to domestic life.
The design of this pair is full of modern energy that has, and surely will continue to endure for generations thanks to its classic look, quality materials and evident quality of the craftsmanship. Chairs are often considered especially revealing of a designer's skill because of the strict limits placed on their design by the demands of the human body. With these chairs, Johansson-Pape arrived at a clearly-structured solution in which a high degree of coherence is maintained while the chairs appear visually light and open. She followed the mid-century modern philosophy guided by functionality and simplicity. The elegance and honesty of the frames is enhanced by the upholstery which complements both the shape and wooden legs gracefully. The streamlined body and soft fabric create not only a modern and elegant look, but also allows great comfort. The dark colour of the wood contrasts with the sheepskin upholstery creating visual interest while maintaining the perfect aesthetic balance of the chairs. This complementing nature can also be felt on a textural level, with sheepskin adding a tactile dimension through its soft, fluffy appearance, while the tapered legs add a modern, smooth feel.
Quality materials, organic curvature and innovative shape define the design of this pair. With the power to offer feelings of cosiness and comfort, these timeless chairs sit as well in contemporary spaces as they did in 1940s Finnish homes.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The lounge chairs have recently been reconditioned. The wood has some scratches and stains. Due to the age and nature of the sheepskin, the chairs may have marks and discolouration. The chairs have 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:
29.92 in W x 29.53 in D x 29.53 in H; Seat depth 22.05 in
76 cm W x 75 cm D x 75 cm H; Seat depth 56 cm