Pair of Upholstered Danish Cabinetmaker Armchairs with Lacquered Walnut Legs, Denmark ca 1940s


























Pair of Upholstered Danish Cabinetmaker Armchairs with Lacquered Walnut Legs, Denmark ca 1940s
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognised term around the world, standing for the characteristic style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these lounge chairs show, furniture created in this period is characterised by clarity in design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
This pair of armchairs exudes quality and personality from all angles. Their classic shape is formed by the generous seat and embracing back. The large backrests feature tufted buttons and follow the curve of the voluptuous seats, creating an inviting and open look, which is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The tapered, lacquered wood legs prevent the chairs from looking too heavy, while their warm brown colour nicely contrasts the soft, light colour of the bodies.
The seats are generously stuffed, while the backs are softly tilted, creating a cosy look that provides great comfort. The element that truly elevates the modern outline of these chairs’ is the upholstery: the light, luxuriously soft fabric is exquisite and pairs with the design’s curves very well. Quality craftsmanship was evidently of optimum importance for the cabinetmaker who created these chairs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium 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:
Large chair:
34.25 in W x 37.4 in D x 33.46 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 24.01 in
87 cm W x 95 cm D x 85 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 61 cm
Small chair:
35.04 in W x 36.22 in D x 30.32 in H; Seat height 16.54 in; Seat depth 18.9 in; Arm height 24.01 in
89 cm W x 92 cm D x 77 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
By the 1920s, Carl Malmsten became one of the most sought-after interior and furniture designers in all of Sweden. As a furniture maker he expressed the old, inherited forms as well as the new, bold ideas with his language of design. “Lata Greven”, Swedish for Lazy Count, is Carl Malmsten’s most successful “count chair”. With a klismos-style curved back, this model was produced at O.H. Sjögren, a manufacturer that Malmsten often worked with.
This model is a simplified version of the “Jonas Love” armchair, which Carl Malmsten designed for the New York World Fair 1939. Sweeping curves with an organic impression and utmost quality are the main characteristics that define this pair of chairs. Even as a young designer in the early 20th century, Malmsten advocated artisanal furniture design based on local materials and traditions. “Break all edges thoroughly” was a frequent instruction on his drawings and nature was his great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found in his designs. This “Lata Greven” model is no different, with round, outward curving edges on the back and arms, and an upholstered, cosy seat and back. The organicity of the design is not broken by ornamentation, instead the charming green upholstery is utilised to highlight the shape of the chairs. The chairs are supported by slim, tapered legs made of solid wood with a stunning grain.
Carl Malmsten designed a number of so called “Grevar” (Counts) between the 1930s and 1950s and they were often commissioned for special people or projects. The chairs’ manufacturer, O.H. Sjögren is a furniture factory in Tranås in Småland, and has been active for over 110 years and is thus one of the oldest active furniture manufacturing companies in Sweden. Since the 1950s, O.H. Sjögren manufactured furniture designed by Carl Malmsten, where in the 1950s and 60s, he spent a lot of time to develop his furniture designs.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered by a previous owner. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
23.62 in W x 25.59 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 18.50 in; Arm height 25.59 in
60 cm W x 65 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 47 cm; Arm height 65 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Nordiska Kompaniet was founded in Stockholm in 1902, and to this day, it is regarded as one of the most renowned Swedish furniture manufacturers. The department store reflected modern society in different ways; it was a place where much was possible and consumption became not just a necessary everyday routine, but a lifestyle and a pleasure.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive sloping armrests. They also hold a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the supple upholstery, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. The juxtaposition of these materials creates a striking contrast. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty in order to make them as easy to use as possible. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these armchairs as well.
The overall model beautifully speaks of the zeitgeist of Scandinavia in the early-to-mid-20th century, a period characterised by a spirit of experimentation and a departure from traditional norms towards modernism. Evidently, this set is marked by its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and a bold departure from the ornate styles of the past.
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. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
27.55 in W x 29.13 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 30.70 in
70 cm W x 74 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 78 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This pair of armchairs is what we consider a timeless Danish Modern classic. The “ND83” was designed in 1952 by Nanna and Jørgen Ditzel for the exhibition 'Today’s Furniture, Home Equipment' in the Forum Hall Copenhagen in 1952.
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 this model, the Ditzels arrive at a clearly-structured solution in which a high degree of coherence is maintained while the chair appears visually light and open. The structure of the chairs is made entirely of solid oak. Each sculpted leg is made of a single piece of timber that ascend gently, giving stability to the curved backs. Rounded oak dowels plug the holes in which the fastenings for the back can be found -these help to create the elegant simplicity and honesty of the frame. The large curved backs extend up to the front, forming the armrests for a cosy and elegant profile similar to that of a tub chair. The elegance is further enhanced by the premium bouclé upholstery which complements the oak gracefully.
Cabinetmaker Søren Willadsen handcrafted these chairs, while them company Selig Co., imported them to the U.S. market from Denmark in 1952. The “ND83” model is still made to order today, however chairs – like these - from the original production show Ditzel and Willadsen’s true genius. The original marking on the wood is retained.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently reupholstered in a premium bouclé 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:
30.9 in W x 25.98 in D x 26.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 cm
78.5 cm W x 66 cm D x 68.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm
Literature:
Hanne Horsfeld Danske Designere, 'Nanna Ditzel', p.86
Oda Noritsugu, Danish Chairs, p.164
Per H. Hansen, Klaus Petersen, Den Store Danske Møbelguide, p.77
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognised term around the world, standing for the style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these armchairs show, furniture created in this period is characterised by clarity of design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
Danish and Scandinavian modern's timeless appeal has made it a go-to for designers and homeowners alike, as furniture in this style can be understated but still stand out in almost any space. This is true for this pair of armchairs as well. Adopting the trend of abandoning ornamentation to benefit the form, the designer of this pair maintained the beauty and warmth inherent to traditional Danish cabinetmaking. From as early as the 1920s, cabinetmakers and architects frequently collaborated to produce exceptional pieces like these chairs. The backs have a welcoming, enveloping shape that embraces the sitter. The fully upholstered bodies are covered in textural, soft fabric that enhances the curves and contrasts nicely with the stained wood legs. The legs are straight and square in the front and slightly bent and splayed in the back to provide structural stability. Unlike models from outside Scandinavia, Danish designers’ products weren’t flashy but made to be last generations while remaining timeless addition to a space, while completing a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this pair of armchairs exemplify, blending high functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with simple lines, elegance and excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of Danish Modernism.
The design of this pair promotes relaxation and contentment, inviting one to sit back and enjoy a moment of peace. The understated elegance and warm tones create an alluring atmosphere, making them perfect for the purpose of evoking a hyggelig (cosy) environment in any home.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Minor marks and scratches on the legs. 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:
37.79 in W x 41.53 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Seat depth 22.24 in; Arm height 21.45 in
96 cm W x 105.5 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Seat depth 56.5 cm; Arm height 54.5 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
These "Berga" chairs by David Rosén for Nordiska Kompaniet reflect the refined elegance and functional clarity that defined Scandinavian modernism. As a prominent figure in Swedish furniture design, Rosén worked extensively with Nordiska Kompaniet, one of the country’s most influential department stores and producers, creating furniture pieces that embodied the ideals of quality craftsmanship, restrained form, and comfort.
This pair of chairs exude a lovely charm and robust aesthetic that is characteristic of the era. In 20th century design, the use of wood held a special significance; it was not merely a material choice, but a philosophy that emphasised the natural and organic over the ornate and extravagant. Moreover, in a rather distinctive way, softness and tradition merge in these armchairs. While it is elemental thanks to the solid stained pine and interesting construction, the roundness and elegantly sculpted form still provide a sense of gentleness. Pine was a popular choice of wood in Swedish furniture design during the early-to-mid 20th century. Axel Einar Hjorth was another prominent figure who extensively worked with pine, he was also the head of Nordiska Kompaniet during the time of Rosén’s tenure. Hjorth greatly contributed to the burgeoning Swedish design culture, in which these influences are seen in this pair of chairs.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair of chairs with utmost care for its quality and design. The company was among the most renowned Swedish lighting manufacturers during the mid-century era, working with some of the most well-known Scandinavian designers - and this "Berga" model is a prime example of the great success these collaborations resulted in.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.25 in W x 25.20 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 15.16 in; Seat depth 17.71 in; Arm height 23.22 in
87 cm W x 64 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
“Danish Modern” is a recognized term around the world, standing for the characteristic style of Danish design created during the 20th century. As these lounge chairs show, furniture created in this period are characterized by clarity in design, and extremely high-quality craftsmanship and choice of materials.
This pair of lounge chairs exudes quality and personality from all angles. Their classic shape is formed by the generous seat and embracing back. The large, curved backrests feature tufted buttons and follow the curve of the voluptuous seats, creating an inviting and open look which is a signature characteristic of Danish Modernism. The tufting stitches are festooned with thirteen, symmetrically arranged buttons on each chair, that sink into the soft upholstery. The tapered, lacquered wood legs prevent the chairs from looking heavy by slightly lifting them off the ground, while their warm brown colour nicely contrasts the soft, light colour of the bodies. The back legs are splayed to provide structural support to the chairs.
Thanks to the sheepskin, the chairs give a natural, textured look, making them ideal to blend a stroke of modernity to any space, with a nod to organic, simple artistry. Sheepskin is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The artisanal production quality is evident throughout this pair and takes the Danish idea of “furniture that last for generations” seriously.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
32.28 in W x 33.46 in D x 31.1 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
82 cm W x 85 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
About the Designer:
The practical and comfortable designs of Danish cabinetmakers defined mid-20th century modern seating. The Danish Cabinetmakers focused on minimalist design executed by expertly skilled craftsmen.
Works from the Danish Cabinet-Makers' Guild is a concept of its own in collectible design. The Cabinet-Makers' Guild began annual exhibitions in 1927 in Copenhagen. The group formed an exhibit showing each year in October the quality furniture made to drawings by gifted architects. The exhibition took place each year, without interruption, for forty years. A number of successful Danish Design collaborations were formed during this time between cabinetmakers and architects.
Danish Modernism has influenced Scandinavian furniture to a great degree, defined by minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. The muted colours and gentle designs make Danish mid-century furniture an ideal addition to contemporary living spaces. Additionally, master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
The works of master cabinetmakers – such as this chair – are of the highest quality, both in terms of materials and craftsmanship. Cabinetmakers take the art of working with wood one step further, and focus on the finer details of what can be created with the material. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that numerous master cabinetmakers are part of the renowned Danish Culture Canon (Danish: Kulturkanonen). The canon contains no more than 108 works of cultural excellence, based on works with a useful function and that are still recognizable today. This small armchair is the perfect illustration of Danish design, and the work of a true cabinetmaker. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The ‘Skrindan’ armchair model was designed in 1963 by iconic Swedish designer Kerstin Hörlin-Homquist. Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, she created some of the most famous Swedish models of the era.
The unique stained beech frames are a visual delight, with subtle decorative elements that distinguish this pair from other models of the era. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created her models with such precision and creativity that still makes them collectible pieces. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have unmistakable backs and sides comprised of symmetrically arranged spindles. As the backs and armrests sit relatively low, the chairs have an open look. The sheepskin upholstery of the back and seat cushions elevate the visual comfort.
OPE Möbler, Jönköping produced the furniture designs of some of Scandinavia’s most renowned designers, such as Ib Kofod-Larsen, Ingemar Thillmark, and of course, Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist. These ‘Skrindan’ armchairs are exemplary of Swedish mid-century quality and design to its core, uniting functionality with an understated, yet interesting and elegant design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have 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:
29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 17.34 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 23.62 in
75 cm W x 85 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 60 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Hörlin-Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war, where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs, gained recognition for their use of traditional materials and forms like fabrics and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Pilot” chairs was designed by Arne Norell in 1967 and each of them was 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 their 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 characterized by comfort and ease and were to a great extent inspired by Danish design. These “Pilot” easy chairs are no exception with a design idiom centred on the curved wooden legs, stylish upholstery, and the subtly curved bodies offering gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being. The tightly fitted velour fabric and wood complement each other in numerous ways, enhancing each other’s individual qualities, such as the wood legs’ distinctive curves and the fabric’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. This pair of "Pilot" easy chairs encapsulates the essence of Norell’s innovative approach to furniture design. The laminated beech legs allow the shape to be bent and result in the distinctive look this chair model is famous for. Norell began his journey as a furniture designer in the 1950s, becoming renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend comfort and aesthetics through innovative experimentations. During the 1960s, Swedish furniture design witnessed a transformative period marked by a departure from ornate and heavy styles to more streamlined, minimalist forms. Arne Norell played a pivotal role in shaping this evolution, embracing a modernist ethos while staying true to the principles of craftsmanship and quality materials. His designs, including these "Pilot" models, are celebrated for their timeless appeal and functional elegance and style. These chairs epitomize Norell's design philosophy, featuring clean lines, organic shapes, and a commitment to ergonomic excellence. These chairs were produced and are marked by Möbel AB Arne Norell (today known as Norell Möbel AB) in Aneby, Sweden. 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 1950s is still where the company exists today in Sweden.
The perks of incorporating these "Pilot" easy chairs into interior design are manifold; their ergonomic design and lush upholstery make them inviting and comfortable, creating an ideal setting for relaxation. Furthermore, thanks to their mid-century modern aesthetic, these chairs can seamlessly adapt to various interior styles, from modern to contemporary, making them versatile additions to any space. The timeless aesthetic of these "Pilot" chairs ensures that they remain relevant and stylish across different design trends. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, easy chairs like the "Pilot" serve as focal points in a room, elevating the overall design scheme. Whether placed in a cosy reading nook or as part of a larger seating arrangement, these chairs effortlessly enhance the visual appeal of the space.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium velour 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:
32.28 in W x 29.92 in D x 29.52 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 21.25 in
76.5 cm W x 79 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 45 cm; Arm height 55 cm
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.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Carl Malmsten’s life's work spans nearly sixty intense years and his legacy is considered a national treasure in Sweden. He created a number of furniture classics including these rare “Elder man” armchairs.
His entire work is characterized by a close-to-nature philosophy which is deeply rooted in Swedish nature and commoner culture. A deeper knowledge of Carl Malmsten as a person means that his furniture can be seen not only as utilitarian objects, but also as artistic works with the ability to express a feeling or mood. These winged armchairs carry with them that certain “Malmstenesque” that is characterized by gentle curves, a cosy appearance and of course, the highest quality craftsmanship. This is especially visible in the flowing armrests that descend from the top, curling outwards to create a welcoming look. The slightly bent backrests are tufted with dark brown leather stitches that contrast with the light bouclé upholstery both in colour and texture to create a stylish, visually interesting look. As it can be expected from the “Master of Wood”, the frames are expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at their core. To complete the mid-century look, the structures are supported by tapered, solid wood legs that add an organic touch to the design.
In the 50s, Carl Malmsten’s furniture were produced in small series in smaller workshops, which meant that the furniture became very expensive and thus inaccessible to most people. He then decided to select a number of producers who could produce his furniture in larger volumes without sacrificing quality, beauty, and practicality. In Tranås he came into contact with O.H. Sjögren which he considered fulfilled all the high demands he placed on the production of upholstered furniture.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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 1
28.74 in W x 34.64 in D x 41.33 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 21.65 in
73 cm W x 88 cm D x 105 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 55 cm
Chair 2
29.52 in W x 32.67 in D x 41.73 in H; Seat height 14.56 in; Arm height 21.65 in
75 cm W x 83 cm D x 106 cm H; Seat height 37 cm; Arm height 55 cm
About the Designer:
Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.
In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.
Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.
Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship, and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today. ~H.
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Price category: 10,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This pair of Swedish modern armchairs stand out for its inviting shape and charismatic character, capturing the spirit of Scandinavian design. The soft lines and thoughtfully balanced proportions reveal a deep commitment to the abandonment of showy ornamentation in the favour of confident elegance.
The design is grounded in a human-centered approach, favouring curves that follow the body’s natural shape, and the use of materials that age gracefully over time. The tall winged backrests create a slight cocooning feel while still providing excellent support, the subtle button tufting introduces a hint of texture without overpowering the design. The generous seat cushions invite relaxation, aided by the padded wooden armrests. This not only gives the chairs a sculptural edge but it also highlights the natural grain of the wood, adding visual warmth and contrast. The chairs rest on tapered legs that lift the overall silhouette, lending an airy feel despite the generous proportions above. The deep green upholstery immediately draws the eye, bringing a warmth and an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the soft curves of the frame. Altogether, the interplay between rounded shapes and linear details provides a relaxed, harmonious energy that feels both timeless and welcoming, striking a rare balance between functional simplicity and expressive form.
These armchairs capture the essence of Swedish design, making them equally suited for a cosy reading corner or a lively living room. Their distinctive yet versatile character allows them to complement a range of interiors, from mid-century inspired settings to more eclectic contemporary homes.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been recently 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:
27.95 in W x 30.70 in D x 35.43 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 21.65 in; Arm height 23.03 in
71 cm W x 78 cm D x 90 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 55 cm; Arm height 58.5 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Rich in Danish design heritage, this chair model captures the spirit of the mid-20th century, combining natural materials with the sleek, functional style that defined the era. The "Yin" chair is a rare and sought-after collectible that embodies both the beauty and practicality of Scandinavian design.
Danish Modern is known for its emphasis on simplicity, natural materials, and an intrinsic connection to nature. Richard Nissen, influenced by this design movement, often combined traditional craftsmanship with innovative forms, resulting in timeless pieces that still resonate in modern interiors. These chairs embody the principles of functional beauty and understated craftsmanship. The fluid lines of the "Yin" chair, along with its harmonious proportions, create an inviting yet sophisticated presence in any space, evoking a sense of balance and serenity that is key to its design philosophy. The chairs feature a sculptural frame made from rich, honey-toned beech wood, which is known for its durability and smooth grain. The seats are woven from natural wicker, which adds texture and an organic touch to the design. With its gently curved lines and refined proportions, the "Yin" chair exemplifies a harmonious balance between form and function, offering both comfort and aesthetic appeal. The design is a visual interpretation of balance, the careful craftsmanship and attention to detail make this pair a timeless focal point in any interior, ideal for both modern and classic settings.
This Yin Chair is a wonderful example of Richard Nissen's commitment to creating functional yet sculptural furniture pieces. It remains a coveted collectible today, admired for its timeless design and connection to one of the most celebrated movements in modern furniture history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.01 in W x 21.66 in D x 34.65 in H; Seat height 16.34 in
63.5 cm W x 55 cm D x 88 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
These “Lilla Eva” models are from the timeless and iconic Paradise Collection, which was created by Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist during her time as a designer at Nordiska Kompaniet. The name is inspired by “Paradiset” – the Swedish name for Eden.
This pair holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines with an air of romance. Without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought, Hörlin-Holmquist created the peculiar shape of these chairs that is only increasing in popularity. Thanks to her unique vision, these chairs have an unmistakeable backrest that flows down to form the armrests. While the armrests sit low, therefore opening the seats, the chairs still give the impression of hugging the sitter. The upholstered bodies elevate the visual comfort, with tufted backrests that are festooned with nine, symmetrically arranged buttons.
The upholstery is a premium fabric with a soft touch that complements the aesthetic of Hörlin-Holmquist’s design. Similarly, the stained and tapered wood legs pair perfectly with the sculptural and organic form of the bodies. Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist had a unique and humanistic design vision, and thanks to her uncompromising attitude, these “Little Eva” easy chairs have become iconic.
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 chairs have been reupholstered recently in premium 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:
27.55 in W x 30.51 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.15 in
70 cm W x 77.5 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 38.5 cm
About the Designer:
Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist was born on May 30, 1925 in Arvika, Sweden. She was a Swedish modernist architect and designer. Hörlin-Holmquist graduated from Stockholm’s Konstfack in 1952, and before that she studied and worked in England.
She often worked with her husband Erik Holmquist, and together they modelled and created the pieces together. A key aspect for the couple was always to test their designs in their own home before completing a project.
"I think both furniture and textiles, wherever they end up, must be kind, gentle and courteous, but without losing their character. They should have human qualities, not be pompous and only stand alone, but be able to adapt to the environment they end up in..."
Holmquist worked and studied in England from 1946-1947 immediately after the war where she also studied art history and became fascinated with the classic English upholstered furniture and style. Something that without a doubt inspired her own creations later in life while she still developed her own expression. She returned to Sweden where she attended Konstfack from 1948 and graduated from the school in 1952. She started working with Nordiska Kompaniet shortly after her graduation and became a lead designer. Her timeless and iconic ‘Paradiset Collection’ was created during her employment with Nordiska Kompaniet in 1956-1957 and holds a soft simplicity and a uniqueness in its appearance - light, clean lines and yet gracious with an air of romance.
Today, her designs are highly treasured collectibles. She is primarily remembered, for her ability to create designs for the modern home in the 1950s without worrying about short-lived trends and what other people thought - to stay true to her own unique and humanistic design vision.