Pair of "Polar" Lounge Chairs by Esko Pajamies, Finland 1960s








































Pair of "Polar" Lounge Chairs by Esko Pajamies, Finland 1960s
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This pair of “Polar” lounge chairs was designed by the eminent Finnish designer, Esko Pajamies, and produced by Lahden Lepokalusto Oy Finland during the 1960s.
These leather chairs feature a half moon shaped backrest and comfortable, aesthetically pleasing cushions. The sitting cushions are tufted, and along with the upholstered armrests, have a beautiful patina. The strong and sturdy wooden frame provides a beautiful contrast to the black leather, and with the chrome plated steel connections supporting the curved armrests, it gives these chairs a modern look.
The legs have similar chrome plated steel details, which provide the chairs with an almost floating appearance. The open wooden frame further contributes to the spacious feel of the design. The chairs have their original black leather upholstery.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Piping has some minor repairs. Leather has some minor marks. Note: Although from the same source, the items differ a little bit in height. These chairs come with their original leather 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:
29.53 in W x 40.56 in D x 25.99 in H; seat height 16.34 in
75 cm W x 103 cm D x 66 cm H; seat height 41.5 cm
Literature:
Arkkitehti-lehti magazine, 1965.
About the designer:
Esko Lauri Alvari Pajamies (born August 20, 1931 Helsinki - September 26, 1990, Eloúnta, Greece) was a Finnish designer, especially known for his upholstered livingroom and public furniture.
Pajamies graduated as an interior architect in 1954, and established his own design studio in 1961. In the 1960s, Pajamies designed the “Bonanza” couch, which combined leather and solid oak, starting the line of his characteristic mixture of materials. The “Koivutaru” armchair made of bent birch at the end of the 1970s. Pajamies’ workshop also designed furniture for the Helsinki-Vantaa Airport's passenger terminal.
The Finnish designer and architect was awarded the State Art Prize in 1979. Besides being active as a designer, Pajamies was an avid Jazz Trumpeter. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
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
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This “Grand Pedro” armchair shows the curviness that defined the design of the 1950s. Hiort af Ornäs developed this model for his own furniture company, Puunveisto Oy.
The “Grand Pedro” model has a soft, sculptural shape paired with an ergonomic construction, which is very representative of the designer’s beliefs. Hiort af Ornäs was very firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. “Pedro” fulfils these principles, for as even from the bottom, it showcases the elongated, tapered back legs that are visually captivating. The body has a welcoming look, with outward curving armrests and a slightly bent backrest. In service of utmost comfort, the sheepskin upholstery is extremely soft. The light colour and texture of the sheepskin complements the lacquered wood legs beautifully, highlighting their sculptural lines.
The craftsmanship and quality provided by Hiort af Ornäs is very visible in the “Pedro” collection that includes a sofa besides this chair. The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in the recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. 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:
29.13 in W x 28.34 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
74 cm W x 72 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
About the designer:
Carl-Gustaf Vilhelm (nicknamed “Nalle”) Hiort of Ornäs was born on 27 February 1911 and lived most of his life in Tapiola/Espoo in Finland and in his later life moved to Spain. He is remembered as a Finnish interior architect and designer known to be uncompromising.
Before the Finnish wars (1939-1944), Hiort af Ornäs spent his time in Pori, working at Björneborgs Mekaniska Verkstad. He studied at the Helsinki University of Technology to become an architect but never graduated. He did, however, become known as an interior designer, and eventually even more known as a furniture designer.
In 1945, Hiort af Ornäs founded the furniture company Puunveisto Oy, for which he developed versatile techniques for shaping plywood. He started the furniture manufacturing shop on Lauttasaari in Helsinki (Veneentekijäntie 14) together with his brother. The wood shop, showroom and office were all located in the same building in Helsinki. Rolf Mesterton was the man in charge of producing the furniture, but there were several other carpenters at work in the woodshop. Hiort af Ornäs’s furniture was exhibited and sold by the shop Nupponen who also distributed Olavi Hänninen’s designs, while Puunveisto’s furniture were also sold by Gösta Westerbergs Möbler in Stockholm, Sweden but, in spite of a good selection of chairs, tables and shelves, did not do too well. Since production costs were high, Hiort af Ornäs faced economic troubles. The company was later sold to Nupponen after which Hiort af Ornäs’s interest in the company waned.
Hiort af Ornäs spent his retirement in Spain, and designed several buildings for Fuengirola’s Los Pacos neighbourhood, which has a large Finnish population. His house that he drew and built in Tapiola, Espoo, Finland, ‘Villa Hiort’, still stands and houses some of the designer’s original drawings. It is a beautiful example of 1950s Modernism and the talent of Hiort af Ornäs that brought him recognition that lasts to this day. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Illum Wikkelsø was a recognisable figure of Danish seating design in the post-war decades, known for creating furniture that combined sculptural silhouettes with a strong emphasis on comfort. Working throughout the 1950s and 1960s with manufacturers such as Søren Willadsen, Wikkelsø developed lounge chairs and sofas that softened the stricter geometry of earlier modernism through curved lines. His designs often relied on exposed wood, generous upholstery, and carefully balanced proportions, allowing seating to feel visually substantial without becoming heavy.
Model “110” reflects this approach through its dramatic winged silhouette and restrained material palette. The chair is upholstered in black leather that wraps continuously around the high back, seat, and armrests, emphasizing the sculptural quality of the form. The backrest rises upward into pronounced side panels that connect the wings to the armrests. The sides curve gently forward, creating a protective and enveloping shape around the sitter. These extended sides visually frame the head and shoulders. The leather surface contributes to the overall character of the piece: its subtle texture catches light differently across the curved sections, giving depth to the large upholstered planes. In contrast to the dark upholstery, the chair rests on a solid wooden base with angled legs that introduce warmth and visual lightness. The exposed wood creates a clear separation between the upholstered body and the floor.
The balance between softness and structure is central to the success of this design. The chair carries the commanding presence associated with high-back lounge seating, yet the flowing transitions between its elements prevent it from feeling rigid. Wikkelsø’s ability to merge comfort with sculptural clarity is especially evident here, making the model equally compelling as functional seating and as a statement piece within an interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The chair comes with its original leather that has developed a natural patina over time. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
29.93 in W x 35.04 in D x 35.44 in H; Seat height 14.57 in; Seat depth 21.26 in; Arm height 21.66 in
76 cm W x 89 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 55 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Born in Utrecht in 1917, Cees Braakman spent most of his career shaping the identity of the renowned furniture manufacturer, Pastoe. He joined the company at a young age and later became its central designer and manager. Following a formative trip to the United States in 1947, where he encountered the work of Charles and Ray Eames and the innovative production methods of Herman Miller, he began developing furniture that combined modern construction techniques with a distinctly Dutch sense of restraint.
Braakman’s designs from the 1950s and 1960s are characterised by clean lines, functional clarity, and carefully balanced proportions, qualities clearly visible in this chair. The design showcases a beautiful interplay between the slender metal construction and natural materials. The black lacquered frame forms a precise architectural structure, outlining the chair with crisp lines. Rather than appearing overly industrial, however, the frame is softened by the introduction of rich cognac-coloured leather upholstery and wooden armrests. The seat and backrest are generously proportioned, creating a comfortable visual weight that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the supporting structure. The warm tone of the leather introduces depth and character, while its smooth surface accentuates the chair’s geometry. Particularly striking is the way the wooden armrests are integrated within the metal frame, lending the design an added sense of refinement.
The balance between comfort and structural clarity lies at the heart of Braakman’s work, and this armchair demonstrates that philosophy exceptionally well. Its restrained palette and clean silhouette move it past a simple a seating piece, reflecting the Dutch modernist belief that thoughtful design can elevate everyday furniture into something practical, and visually compelling.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the metal, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been reupholstered in a premium leather. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
24.21 in W x 22.44 in D x 30.71 in H; Seat height 19.29 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 25.20 in
61.5 cm W x 57 cm D x 78 cm H; Seat height 49 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 64 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Saying mid-century modernism had a revival would be a serious understatement. In reality, the designs have never gone out of style completely, especially in Europe. Mid-20th century pieces are classics thanks to their expert craftsmanship, their visual impact, and the material quality. This armchair pair showcases this timelessness with their modern form.
Without any heavy ornamentation, the focus falls on the natural materials used to craft this pair of chairs. The authenticity is celebrated rather than disguised or embellished. This choice of wood and leather not only aligns with the organic principles of mid-century modernism, but it also contributes to the chairs' overall longevity in both form and function. It is evident that the maker of these chairs possessed great talent in cabinetmaking, and used high-quality materials that became even more appealing with the decades gone by. This is visible in the beautiful patina of the braided leather backrests that resemble a checkerboard. This element adds a touch of individuality and artistry, setting the chairs apart from the mass-produced furniture of the time. Moreover, the sitting comfort is increased by the upholstered cushions. The textured upholstery of the seat cushion beautifully complements the frame. The chair embodies comfort and cosiness through the mix of proportions and expertly selected materials.
Functionally and visually, this armchair pair demonstrates how mid-20th century European design could bridge tradition and modernity without sacrificing comfort or structural clarity. It is well suited to domestic living rooms, or quiet seating nooks while its understated modernism makes it versatile alongside both mid-century and contemporary interiors.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, some marks and scratches are present. The items 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:
20.7 in W × 22.2 in D × 29.1 in H; Seat height: 13.0 in; Seat depth: 16.5 in; Arm height: 21.9 in
52.5 cm W x 56.5 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 33 cm; Seat depth 42 cm; Arm height 55.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Svend Aage Holm-Sørensen was a Danish designer best known for his lighting. As a trained ornamental metalworker, he began designing lamps during the 1950s and developed a distinctive approach to metal, working with different finishes, perforated surfaces and expressive silhouettes. His designs ranged from decorative wall lights to more restrained floor lamps, often combining black lacquered metal with brass. This pair from around the 1950s shows the more minimal side of his work, with slender tripod structures and carefully placed brass details.
The lamps are constructed from black lacquered metal and brass, with three narrow legs forming each tripod base. The legs are positioned closely together beneath the central stem before spreading outward toward the floor, creating a light and elegant structure. Each leg tapers toward a small pointed brass foot, while additional brass sections appear at the upper ends of the tripod and introduce a contrast against the black lacquer. Above, a thin brass stem extends vertically from the tripod and supports a broad cylindrical fabric shade. The narrow stem highlights the height of the lamps and creates a clear separation between the tripod bases and the shades above. Their construction appears almost weightless despite the generous size of the shades, which provide a strong horizontal counterpoint to the long vertical lines below. When illuminated, the fabric softens the light into a warm glow that complements the brass and adds warmth to the graphic black framework. Used as a pair, the repetition of the tall stems and three-legged bases creates a particularly strong architectural rhythm.
Holm-Sørensen’s understanding of metalwork is clear in these lamps, where a small number of structural elements create a highly recognisable silhouette. The height and open tripod bases give them presence without adding visual weight, making the pair particularly effective on either side of a sofa, console or seating arrangement.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The floor lamps have recently been rewired and reconditioned. The shades are later replacements. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the lamp may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. This lamps are compatible with an E26 / E27 standard fitting. All lighting can be converted for US usage.
Dimensions:
19.68 in ø x 56.49 in H
50 cm ø x 143.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Marco Zanuso, born in 1916, was one of a group of Italian designers from Milan shaping the international idea of "good design" in the postwar years. After graduating from the Politecnico di Milano in 1939 with a degree in architecture, and serving in the Second World War, he opened his own office in 1945 and was a pioneer of the use of modern materials.
Along with other pieces - such as the ‘Lady’ and the ‘Martingala’ chairs designed by Marco Zanuso for Arflex - the ‘Regent’ lounge chair, designed in 1960, embodies the modern characteristics of its era. This model, with its outward pointing armrests and the dynamic lines of the seating, combines modern forms and ideals to obtain a timeless, impressive piece of furniture. The set is upholstered in a lambswool fabric in a pleasant cream colour. The chair is decorated with four tufted buttons, which add an elegant element of visual interest while alluding to the functionality and focus on comfort of the design. The set is completed by a matching footstool, complementing the chair while serving an obvious functional purpose, further enhancing the lounging experience. Both pieces feature wheels for easy movement, allowing them to be flexible additions to creative interiors.
Through its modern look and functional features, this set of Marco Zanuso ‘Regent’ lounge chair is in service of both the experience of the user, as well as the pursuit of a beautifully decorated space. These pieces are a symbol of timeless elegance, artisanal skill, and the enduring allure of modern design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair and footstool have been reupholstered recently in lambswool 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:
Chair
32.68 in W x 37 in D x 33.27 in H; Seat height 16.93 in; Seat depth 19.69 in; Arm height 19.69 in
83 cm W x 94 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 50 cm
Footstool
22.44 in W x 23.03 in D x 16.14 in H
57 cm W x 58.5 cm D x 41 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This “Pedro” armchair shows the curviness that defined the design of the 1950s. Hiort af Ornäs developed this model for his own furniture company, Puunveisto Oy.
The “Pedro” model has a soft, sculptural shape paired with an ergonomic construction, which is very representative of the designer’s beliefs. Hiort af Ornäs was very firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. “Pedro” fulfils these principles, for as even from the bottom, it showcases the elongated, tapered back legs that are visually captivating. The body has a welcoming look, with outward curving armrests and a slightly bent backrest. In service of utmost comfort is the removable seat cushion that ensures sitting comfort, and the upholstery that is extremely soft. The colour and texture of the fabric complements the lacquered wood legs beautifully, highlighting their sculptural lines.
The craftsmanship and quality provided by Hiort af Ornäs is very visible in the “Pedro” collection that includes a sofa besides this chair. The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in the recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
27.55 in W x 26.96 in D x 29.72 in H; Seat height 16.92 in
70 cm W x 68.5 cm D x 75.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm
About the designer:
Carl-Gustaf Vilhelm (nicknamed “Nalle”) Hiort of Ornäs was born on 27 February 1911 and lived most of his life in Tapiola/Espoo in Finland and in his later life moved to Spain. He is remembered as a Finnish interior architect and designer known to be uncompromising.
Before the Finnish wars (1939-1944), Hiort af Ornäs spent his time in Pori, working at Björneborgs Mekaniska Verkstad. He studied at the Helsinki University of Technology to become an architect but never graduated. He did, however, become known as an interior designer, and eventually even more known as a furniture designer.
In 1945, Hiort af Ornäs founded the furniture company Puunveisto Oy, for which he developed versatile techniques for shaping plywood. He started the furniture manufacturing shop on Lauttasaari in Helsinki (Veneentekijäntie 14) together with his brother. The wood shop, showroom and office were all located in the same building in Helsinki. Rolf Mesterton was the man in charge of producing the furniture, but there were several other carpenters at work in the woodshop. Hiort af Ornäs’s furniture was exhibited and sold by the shop Nupponen who also distributed Olavi Hänninen’s designs, while Puunveisto’s furniture were also sold by Gösta Westerbergs Möbler in Stockholm, Sweden but, in spite of a good selection of chairs, tables and shelves, did not do too well. Since production costs were high, Hiort af Ornäs faced economic troubles. The company was later sold to Nupponen after which Hiort af Ornäs’s interest in the company waned.
Hiort af Ornäs spent his retirement in Spain, and designed several buildings for Fuengirola’s Los Pacos neighbourhood, which has a large Finnish population. His house that he drew and built in Tapiola, Espoo, Finland, ‘Villa Hiort’, still stands and houses some of the designer’s original drawings. It is a beautiful example of 1950s Modernism and the talent of Hiort af Ornäs that brought him recognition that lasts to this day. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Finn Juhl is celebrated for his sculptural approach to furniture design. Rooted in the principles of modernism and influenced by the Scandinavian cultural emphasis on practicality and beauty, Juhl sought to create furniture that was both elegant and accessible. Danish design flourished in this era, embodying a timeless aesthetic that prioritised human comfort and sustainable practices, laying the foundation for its post-war international acclaim.
The “Bwana” model was produced in the 1960s by France & Son. The chair and footstool blend three main elements: craftsmanship, the clean lines of Modernism and the clear-eyed practicality of Functionalism. These elements combined with the use of exquisite materials create a piece that is both historical and modern visually. Unlike models from outside the continent, Danish furniture wasn’t flashy but rather well-made to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, its geometrically-inspired frame is constructed from a rich wood that exudes luxury. The deep shade and grain of the wood creates an impactful look while adding subtle decoration to the piece. The different tones of brown flow from the arms and form into the front legs of the armchair, creating depth and dynamism. The chair and footstool are upholstered in a green leather, adding vibrancy to any interior space.
Finn Juhl once said "One cannot create happiness with beautiful objects, but one can spoil quite a lot of happiness with bad ones", and this armchair and footstool will most definitely not spoil any happiness in the interior where they are placed.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches on the wood. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, and discolouration. These items come with their original upholstery or has 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:
Chair:
33.66 in W x 22.83 in D x 36.02 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 21.85 in; Arm height 20.84 in
85.5 cm W x 58 cm D x 91.5 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 55.5 cm; Arm height 53 cm
Footstool:
25 in W x 17.51 in D x 15.15 in H
63.5 cm W x 44.5 cm D x 38.5 cm H
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
At the turn of the 20th century, Art Nouveau emerged as a reaction against historic revival styles and the mass-production brought about by the Industrial Revolution. It favoured organic lines, natural motifs, and a sense of fluidity. Across Europe, designers sought to create objects that felt alive, drawing inspiration from plants, vines, and patterns found in nature. This armchair sits firmly within that context, reflecting the period’s fascination with good craftsmanship, ornament and atmosphere.
This armchair showcases a timeless blend of organicity, simplicity and craftsmanship. Constructed from solid wood, the chair features a sturdy frame with a warm, natural finish that highlights the wood's grain and durability. Wood was the favoured material in this period for its resilience and beautiful grain pattern, thus increasing the visual depth of the chair. The seat and back are upholstered in leather, which adds beautiful texture and a traditional look, while still maintaining comfort through its natural flexibility. By being entirely constructed from natural materials, this piece maintains its classic charm typical of early 20th century furniture, while adding versatility through its unpretentious, organic character. The armrests flow downward to form the legs and feature a subtle curve, providing ergonomic support, highlighting the chair's understated elegance.
This model can be easily used as an accent chair thanks to its characteristic details, but can also complement a wide variety of interior styles with it refined and elegant style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The leather shows scratches and cracks. The left arm has a mark. Due to the age and nature of the materials, the item may have additional imperfections and discolouration.
Dimensions:
25.20 in W x 23.62 in D x 37.40 in H; 17.72 in SH; 19.69 in SD; 28.35 in AH
64 cm W x 60 cm D x 95 cm H; 45 cm SH; 50 cm SD; 72 cm AH
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs gained recognition for their usage of traditional materials and forms like leather and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Löven” chairs was designed by Norell in 1964 with each of them being handmade in Aneby, Sweden in the same factory that Norell established himself a decade earlier. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine Swedish modern chair.
The design of these remarkable chairs carries a certain “design weight” that is the result of its understated elegance, premium materials, and the outstanding craftsmanship. Norell was known for his versatile use of wood and leather in his furniture designs that are characterised by comfort and ease and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. These “Löven” easy chairs are no exception with a design idiom centred on warm wood, buttery leather and gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being. The elements of the design that create these characteristics are the beautiful solid wood frames with raised seats and gently tilted backs composed of horizontal slats and the loose leather seat and back cushions. Leather and wood complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing the individual qualities, such as the wood’s polished curves -especially on the armrests - and the leather’s rich texture and colour. The result is an infinitely elegant and comfortable look that is unlikely to ever lose its appeal and only get more stylish with time.
With their refined elegance, these chairs produced by Möbel AB Arne Norell (today known as Norell Möbel AB) in Aneby, are truly timeless and will fit in almost any interior. The workshop was founded in 1954 by Arne Norell, and ever since its establishment, it has been a family business carrying on Norell’s design legacy. In fact, the same factory that Arne Norell built in the 1960s is still where the company exists in Sweden.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the chairs may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs are upholstered in leather with a beautiful patina. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
32.28 in W x 29.92 in D x 29.52 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25 in
82 cm W x 76 cm D x 75 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 54 cm
Literature:
Siesing, Andreas, Svenska Möbler: Folkhemsform i ull, jakaranda, furu och bok : 1949-1970, Atlantis, Stockholm, 2015, s. 255
About the designer:
Arne Norell started his own workshop in 1954 in the town of Solna, Sweden. Thereafter, he moved to Småland and established his company Möbel AB Arne Norell, today known as Norell Möbel AB (Norell Furniture). He was known for his versatile use of wood, leather, fabric, and metal in furniture characterized by comfort and ease. Norell’s success made him a household name within the interior design-world of Europe. Several models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence.
He was to a great extent inspired by Danish design. Two examples of this influence are the lounge chair Ari and the safari chair Sirocco. Ari was awarded the British Furniture Manufacturer’s greatest award “showpiece of the year” in 1973. Many of the models he designed came into production after his death in 1971. His designs are still handcrafted by the same company today, Norell Möbel AB.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
Finland and Helsinki are extremely important in mid-century modern design history, and one of the most famous designers of the period was Alvar Aalto. In contrast with the functionalism of the international style, Aalto brought a refreshing breath of humanism to modern design, as evidenced by this pair of Model “400” armchairs.
There is a saying that “Functionalism is a Finnish thing”, and it is hard to argue with that when looking at this pair of chairs. Functionality is without a doubt one of the most important aspects of Finnish design, however, there is also a demand for the highest quality, both in design and materials. Alvar Aalto is the Finnish icon of functionalism, and through this “400” or “Tank” model it is easy to see why. The design is first and foremost functional, combining practicality and aesthetics. These chairs feature a solid wooden frame with a striking silhouette. The arms are particularly distinctive thanks to their geometric look. They create a sculptural line that complements the simplicity of the overall form. The wood is painted black and pairs beautifully with the green upholstery, offering a restrained yet sophisticated material contrast. The choice of green allows for a sense of luxury and richness while still remaining grounded.
Aalto's free-form designs, in harmony with human needs and nature, anticipated the organic modernism of the 1950s and 1960s. This model can be a design statement in any space while also serving its functional purpose.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The armchairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The pair 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:
30.51 in W × 34.64 in D × 25.98 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Seat depth 23.62 in; Arm height 19.29 in
77.5 cm W x 88 cm D x 66 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Seat depth 60 cm; Arm height 49 cm