Armchair by Bas van Pelt, Netherlands First Half of the 20th Century


















Armchair by Bas van Pelt, Netherlands First Half of the 20th Century
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Bas van Pelt holds a distinctive place in Dutch design history; he is celebrated primarily for his furniture, yet was equally active as an interior designer whose broader spatial vision informed his work. Although his early designs reflected the straight lines associated with The Hague School of the 1920s, this armchair reflects a more assured phase of his career that coincides with the broader development of Dutch modernism. Here, geometric lines soften into gentle curves with a rich use of materials.
The weaved backrest pairs beautifully with the smooth wooden frame, curving to embrace the sitter. It is coupled with a sage green upholstered seat, creating an interplay of line and texture. The seat emphasises an added layer of comfort while still complementing the natural materials used for its construction. The armrests, with their subtle and flowing curves, are carefully shaped to give the chair a sense of movement - juxtaposed with the straight lines and right angles that make up the frame. The overall impression is that of a visually interesting piece full of contrasts, while simultaneously enhancing the comfort of the user at the crucial points of the back, arms, and seat. The legs remain simple in design, serving a primarily structural role, letting the back and seat stand out.
Bas van Pelt’s furniture models are quite rare, with a few preserved in the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam for modern art, contemporary art, and design. His progressive designs were, in many ways, ahead of his time. What makes this armchair especially compelling is the combination of materials and techniques that come together harmoniously to make a visually striking piece.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature of the wood, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair comes with its original upholstery or has 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:
29.52 in W x 24.01 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 24.21 in
75 cm W x 61 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 61.5 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