“Farmor” Armchair by Carl Malmsten for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1950s


















“Farmor” Armchair by Carl Malmsten for O.H. Sjögren, Sweden 1950s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
In the mid-1950s, Carl Malmsten awarded ten small furniture companies, mainly in Småland, the honour of making a series of some of his products. Among the first pieces was “Farmor”, which soon became the most popular armchair model.
In 1956, Carl Malmsten was on one of his regular visits to Sjögren's Upholstery Workshop in Tranås to develop new models for his furniture program. That was when this “Grandma” chair came into being and since then, she has become a dear family member in many Swedish homes. Carl Malmsten wanted the furniture to express a special feeling or mood, which is also reflected in how he named them. This armchair’s name relates to the design’s utmost comfort, that is exuded through the friendly and round shapes, femininity and cosiness. The chair’s frame is made of solid pine from Swedish forests to provide a sturdy base. The high-back has an unmistakeable “crown” on top of it, that complements the armrests’ outward curling lines. The sitting comfort of this model is quite famous, the seat and the springs together, create extreme comfort. The plump seat, patterned fabric, and button tufting further add to the warm feeling of the design, while keeping it stylish and modern.
Carl Malmsten wanted this Farmor or Grandmother armchair to express a particular feeling of warmth and comfort with the friendly and rounded forms. The femininity and the impression of homecoming that is often associated with the word grandma is apparent in the design, which is undoubtedly why this model has been continuously beloved for the past six decades.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium fabric.
Dimensions:
28.34 in W x 32.48 in D x 39.96 in H
72 cm W x 82.5 cm D x 101.5 cm H
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. 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: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This lounge chair by Swedish designer, Gösta Jonsson, exudes quality and personality from all angles, and is the designer’s most famous model. The basic Swedish design principles are all present and upholstered in soft and stylish sheepskin.
With organic forms and harmonious proportions, this model is an excellent example of great Swedish design from the era. Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this lounge chair has a classic shape, paired with a modern edge. The generous seat and back are welcoming, with the latter curving in such an angle that the sitter is “hugged”. The large, curved backrest features tufted buttons and follows the curve of the equally generous seat, creating a harmonious look. The backside of this chair is quite striking, as it is created from a single piece stemming from the base. The sheepskin used for the upholstery is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It elevates the sheer size and shape of the chair, especially its back, beautifully. At the same time, the wood also remains in the focus, as it is the most important material in Swedish mid-century design. The solid, stained wood legs are tapered to lighten the look, but are thick enough at the top to provide adequate joinery strength.
The artisanal production quality shows throughout this chair and takes the Swedish idea of furniture that last for generations seriously. The harmony of craftsmanship, the materials and the design makes this lounge chair ideal for any interior and style.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
30.7 in W x 34.64 in D x 27.95 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
78 cm W x 88 cm D x 71 cm H; Seat height 41 cm
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Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect and furniture maker Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for Sweden’s Nordiska Kompaniet department store from 1926 to 1938. During this time, Hjorth designed the “Sportstugemöbler” series, (which translates to “sports cabin furnishings”) a collection of wooden furniture designed for country homes. The various models in the sportstugemöbler series took their names from locations in the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and Utö.
The “Lovö” model, designed within the series of chalet furnishings, was initially launched by Nordiska Kompaniet in 1932. The series was a response to a new and growing demand for furnishings for leisure houses where the style was more informal. This chair is crafted from local pine wood, while the backrest features iron rivets. The juxtaposition between the pine and iron provides a rustic, sturdy and resilient feel, elevating the timeless look of the model. The chair combines a simple and honest form of the handcrafted style of traditional Nordic “allmoge” furniture, and the international 20th century Modernist movement. The result is a modest yet visually interesting design with a strong silhouette. The pine body is composed of a low, curved back that is slightly tilted in order to increase the sitter’s comfort - highlighting the functional nature of the chair. The seat features a loose, removable cushion, upholstered in a textural, striped fabric. Not only is the design of this model unique, but the colourful, cushion further increases the special character, ensuring remarkable charm. The design is completed by four square, straight legs, offering sturdiness.
The “Sportstugemöbler” series had a lasting influence on Hjorth’s contemporaries, inspiring other big names within Nordic design, such as Carl Malmsten. From an international perspective, this series is the forerunner of later pioneering designs, so it comes as no surprise that these “Lovö” chairs became part of modernist design history.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This chair comes with its 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:
20.86 in W x 20.07 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 16.92 in
53 cm W x 51 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 43 cm
About the designer:
Axel Einar Hjorth was born in a small Swedish village named Krokek, just outside Norrköping, on March 7, 1888. At the age of 20, he moved to Stockholm to study architecture and design at the Högre Konstindustriella Skolan.
Although he never graduated, in the 1920s Hjorth started working as a furniture designer for various manufacturers, such as H. Joop & Co., Myrestedt & Stern, Jonssons, and Nordiska Kompaniet. Hjorth’s designs from this period had neoclassical features combined with Swedish Grace. This romantic national style of Sweden was elegant and refined, yet simple. The anniversary exhibition of 1923 in Gothenburg marked the breakthrough of Swedish decorative arts, and made Axel Einar Hjorth a well-respected artist. From October 1926, Hjorth became the chief designer and architect of Nordiska Kompaniet department store in Stockholm. In the 1930s, Hjorth designed a furniture collection out of pine meant for serial production known as Sportstugemöbler (furniture for holiday houses).
Hjorth’s designs, from the luxury of neoclassicism to the severity of functionalism, are sharply distinctive in style, materials, and character. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Hjorth did not conform to the socially oriented ideas produced by Svensk Form (the Swedish Society of Crafts and Design). He played a significant role in the development of Swedish society as a whole, and particularly in Swedish industrial art.
Today Hjorth is often viewed as a precursor to the modern designs popularised by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Royére, Pierre Chapo, or Josef Frank. Recently, there has been a revival of appreciation for his work, showing his genius in a new light.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
In Sweden, “svensk design” in particular operates as a set of relations linking objects, spaces, people to the cultural ideologies that motivate the persistence of a social democratically infused “way of life.” Thanks to this sentiment, the cabinetmaker of this chair put an emphasis on soft elegance and functionality, making it timeless in every sense of the word.
The Swedish design movement has exercised a wide influence on modern architecture and interior furnishings internationally since the early twentieth century. As this beautiful high-back lounge chair shows, early mid-century modern designers and cabinetmakers not only prioritised outstanding craftsmanship, but also an aesthetic quality that honours the materials and their users alike. Swedish proponents of modern design ideals were able to cultivate their principles in a climate of relative calm with the long-term persistence of crafts traditions being especially formative. This craftsmanship is apparent in this lounge chair with a sinuous body that is as artistic as it is functional. The main principles of Swedish Modernism centre around minimalism, simplicity, and functionalism. This chair achieves to follow these principles while offering plenty of visually arresting qualities, including the high, curved back and exposed, sculptural arms that claw into the upholstery. The rich texture of the bouclé fabric accentuates the expressive shape of the frame that praises the maker’s sense of proportions. The short wood legs don’t take away from the robust, cosy appearance, instead they keep the design grounded and perfectly stable while also providing contrast with the beautiful colour. The expert Swedish craftsmanship is clearly visible throughout this piece, with impeccable woodworking and construction.
This beautiful, inviting lounge chair lives up to its Swedish heritage both in terms of visual and material quality. While its aesthetic is clean and functional, it has an eye-catching look with luxurious upholstery and cross stitches that make it an ideal accent piece as well.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some mark, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has 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:
29.13 in W x 37.79 in D x 39.96 in H; Seat height 14.76 in; Arm height 24.21 in
74 cm W x 96 cm D x 101.5 cm H; Seat height 37.5 cm; Arm height 61.5 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming armchair is unique evidence of how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. Berga Möbler, later called Berga Form, began manufacturing furniture of the highest quality in 1896.
This armchair holds all the characteristics that define the manufacturer's style: soft, organic, playful, and sophisticated. The model is slightly tilted backwards allowing for a pleasant sitting experience. The tapered wooden legs add a touch of mid-century modern flair apart from being structurally integral, while the two front legs have a precise curvature towards the end; a feature which has become a distinctive feature of Berga Möbler's designs. The rounded backrest and armrests are just some of the elements that define the elegance of the chair. Slightly inclined towards the backrest, the armrests enhance the excellent seating experience, making this piece a great choice for any contemporary living space. The back is tufted with two large buttons that allow for a friendly and welcoming appearance. The cushioning is firm yet plush, perfectly balancing comfort and support. This attention to detail ensures that the armchair is beautiful and practical for everyday use.
Crafted with precision and finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension, this armchair stands the test of time thanks to both their visual and material quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. 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:
29.52 in W x 33.46 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 17.71 in; Seat depth 20.86 in; Arm height 23.62 in
75 cm W x 85 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 45cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
While they play a prominent role in both architecture and pop culture, rocking chairs solidified their place in Scandinavian design history as well. As this Swedish model proves, functionality can manifest in many forms, but it is always accompanied by both great material and aesthetic quality in Swedish design.
Taking influence from the golden age of modernism in Sweden and the 1930s’ cabin furniture, this rocking chair was made in the famous “sportstugemöbel” style, originally intended for Swedish summer houses. Solid pine was the preferred material in this specific style and some of the most prominent Swedish designers created models for these summer residencies, including Axel Einar Hjorth and Carl Malmsten. Functionality and longevity were the guiding principles for the style, and accordingly, for this rocking chair as well. The pine structure is very polished and firm, assembled with an expert joinery technique. The seat is ergonomically carved, and the edges are gently rounded for maximum comfort.
Åby furniture factory was located in Tjureda parish, in Sweden’s Växjö municipality. The company primarily manufactured pine furniture, including the “SMI 110” chair that has the same backseat as this rocking chair model.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood.
Dimensions:
25.20 in W x 36.42 in D x 34.06 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
64 cm W x 92.5 cm D x 86.5 cm H; Seat height 44 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The mid-20th century saw brilliant designers working to create furniture of the highest quality that explored modern shapes and forms. These artists experimented with new materials and construction methods. This stunning chaise longue revolves around the use of high-quality materials, comfort, and craftsmanship. It’s clean lines and angular shape is reminiscent of works by Danish designer, Arne Vodder.
This chaise blends 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 creates a piece that is both historical and modern visually. The chaise is defined by its woven seat and the patinated leather. The seat is composed of leather straps woven in a so-called basket weave pattern and stretched over the solid wood frame. Thanks to the material’s qualities, the seat is very ergonomic, adapting to the sitter’s shape. This piece combines the beauty and innovation of its era’s design movement with the classic qualities of a chaise longue. With its rhythmic motion, it invites contemplation and relaxation. This piece has the power to transform a seat into a safe haven, a place to unwind and reflect.
This chaise longue is a prime example of mid-century modern’s design ideology. The maker of this model effortlessly transformed a historical archetype into a modern, yet timeless chair. It’s sophisticated, lightweight look is defined by its signature craftsmanship, well-conceived proportions, and remarkable material choices.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
52.55 in W x 23.22 in D x 37.40 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 34.64 in
133.5 cm W x 59 cm D x 95 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 88 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Scandinavian design is a distinctive style that represents a design philosophy, guided by functionality, simplicity and clean lines. The maker of this lounge chair not only had a preference for its main characteristics and materials, but showed a deep respect for the movement as well. The design of this model is in favour of the user, maintaining the focus on authentic simplicity.
Created in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this lounge chair is a Danish delicacy, with a unique look. With its classic shape paired with modern design elements, this model combines the best design characteristics of the 1940s. The large, enveloping backrest dictates the shape of this chair, as it forms most of the structure, including the armrests. The curvature creates an inviting and open look, enhanced by the soft sheepskin upholstery. The spherical, so-called bun feet on the chair’s front legs are a pleasant touch. The warm brown colour of the stained beech nicely contrasts to the soft, light colour of the body, not to mention that wooden bun feet make a long-lasting, rock solid foundation for any chair. The back legs differ, they are straight, which is an eccentric detail that adds visual interest. Master cabinetmakers were highly aware of body proportions, prioritizing comfort just as much as the visual qualities, therefore this lounge chair provides support for the back and great sitting comfort.
Through decades of changes in styles and preferences, the various iterations of what has come to be called Danish Modern have managed to go on “speaking” to consumers, collectors, and design aficionados – and most importantly to users – in rapidly changing cultures. This early Danish mid-century lounge chair shows why. Without any tufting or festooning, the focus here is on the round, flowing lines of the body and its upholstery. The sheepskin used for the upholstery is the ultimate material for comfort, warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, some marks, scratches, and discolouration may be present. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
31.10 in W x 31.49 in D x 28.34 in H; Seat height 15.35 in
79 cm W x 80 cm D x 72 cm H; Seat height 39 cm
About the Designer:
Thepractical 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 model 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
Danish Modern is a term that has become very familiar from the 1920s onward, and continues to stay in the focus today thanks to unique pieces such as this lounge chair and ottoman.
This set is delightfully stylish thanks to one small, but ingenious detail: the fully upholstered bodies, including the legs. The resulting highly organic, unique look is very grounded and cosy. To keep the set from being overcrowded visually, the rest of the design is kept simple with gently rounded lines and no other form of decoration. An impressive aspect of this chair and ottoman is that the craftsmanship expected from Danish cabinetmakers is still visible despite the full coverage of the fabric. The shape of the chair resembles that of a club chair with a wide and open profile where the arms and back are on the same level. Thanks to this, the textured upholstery truly stands out; the greenish wool blend fabric pairs very well with the smooth outlines of both pieces. This effect is further enhanced when the chair and ottoman are placed together as a set. The overall design values simplicity in both form and function, leaving the emphasis on the upholstery.
The most traditional use for such club chair-like models is in the living room, but they work especially well in an open floor plan. The early mid-century modern aesthetic lends itself well to most styles as it is timelessly elegant and high-quality in terms of materials and execution. In the case of this chair and ottoman, they are guaranteed to stand out no matter their placement or surroundings.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The ottoman is a later addition. The chair and ottoman have been reupholstered recently in a wool blend 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:
Chair:
35.03 in W x 33.85 in D x 27.95 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Arm height 27.16 in
89 cm W x 86 cm D x 71 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Arm height 69 cm
Ottoman:
25.98 in W x 22.44 in D x 14.96 in H
66 cm W x 57 cm D x 38 cm H
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Designed by Henning Kjaernulf, this so-called “kurulstol” or kurul chair, is an iconic model by Danish designer, Henning Kjærnulf. The Kurul chair is an ancient folding chair, originally a folding stool with straight or curved legs. Among the Romans, in addition to being an ordinary utility chair, it was symbolically linked to officials, often within the judiciary.
This armchair combines the traditional kurul structure with a rounded and curved appearance with an upholstered seat and backrest that gives the historic look a modern edge. The oak frame is carved and sculpted in an unmistakeable way, showing the skills of both the designer and the manufacturer. The body is composed of two slats of wood of equal length in the front and back, fastened together in a saltire formation (resembling the letter X) which are extended up at the top and back to form the armrests and the backs as well. The seat, upholstered in soft sheepskin, is stretched between the front and back slats connecting the two. Kjærnulf removed the folding function of the historic design, giving his model a more stable, organic look. This impression is further enhanced by the solid oak, which is carved with great precision into straight and curving lines. The rich sheepskin melts these carved and straight lines together, contrasting to the oak’s smoothness. While the historic kurul chair was often decorated with intarsia, this model only showcases subtle decor elements such as the scalloped bridge under the seat, and the curving armrests.
While the kurulstol is a Renaissance classic originating from ancient Rome, thanks to Kjaernulf, Scandinavian modernism remains at the core of the design. Kjærnulf’s designs are easy to spot in a crowd thanks to his originality, making his pieces like the razorblade chair and this model eternally unique. This chair was manufactured by EG Kvalitetsmobel in Denmark during the 1960s.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium sheepskin.
Dimensions:
24.8 in W x 26.77 in D x 31.29 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Arm height 26.18 in
63 cm W x 68 cm D x 79.5 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Arm height 66.5 cm
About the designer:
Danish mid-century designer and architect, Henning Kjaernulf is somewhat of a mystery. A lot more is known about his designs than Kjaernulf himself. His wooden designs, crafted to perfection, speak for themselves. Kjaernulf mainly designed for the Danish manufacturers EG Kvalitetsmøbel, Nyrup Møbelfabrik, and Vejle Stole Møbelfabrik. The latter produced the designer’s well-known teak extending dining table design. The historic archives of the Danish municipality, Stenlille, reveal the history of Nyrup Møbelfabrik, mentioning Kjaernulf’s architectural designs for the company’s factory, referring to him as an architect based in Odense, Denmark.
Kjaernulf’s works reveal quality craftsmanship throughout, featuring clean Danish modern era lines with sculpted edges and shapes. The unique shapes, like his razorblade chair backrests, distinguish the designer from other Danish mid-century designers.
In light of how sought after his dining sets and lounge chairs are, it remains a mystery why so little is known about the designer. The curious background of Kjaernulf if anything, adds more charm to his pieces. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
The 1940s in Denmark saw a renewed focus on comfort and craftsmanship, merging traditional woodworking skills with the evolving aesthetics of modern design. Danish furniture from this era often emphasized organic shapes and luxurious materials to create pieces that invited relaxation and warmth to create hygge. This period highlighted human-centred design, where functionality and elegance were deeply intertwined.
This Danish armchair features a robust yet elegant stained beech frame that showcases the natural richness of the wood, lending the piece a comforting warmth. The curving armrests, which showcase the skilfully shaped and polished beech overlays, flow gracefully into the generous backrest and seat, emphasizing their fluidity. The sumptuous dark red mohair upholstery brings a deep, velvety texture that enhances the chair’s inviting character while adding a dramatic touch of colour to any interior. The design envelops the sitter through the rounded wing-back, cushioned to offer maximum comfort, making the chair as practical as it is visually striking. Subtle button tufting on the backrest adds a refined detail that complements the chair's classic lines. The sturdy yet soft model speaks to Danish traditions of creating furniture made to last generations.
This easy chair combines rich materials and an appealing form encapsulates the timeless charm of mid-century design. Through its craftsmanship, comfort, and enduring elegance, this chair commands appreciation for its cabinetmaker.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in a premium mohair 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 36.22 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Seat depth 20.07 in; Arm height 23.62 in
76 cm W x 92 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 51 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 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 this rare “Elder man” armchair.
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. This winged armchair carries with it 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 backrest is 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 frame is expertly designed, with ergonomic and aesthetic principles at its core. To complete the mid-century look, the structure is 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 chair has 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:
28.74 in W x 34.65 in D x 41.34 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
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: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This rare "Roset" chair is a striking creation by the Danish designer duo Ole Gjerløv-Knudsen and Torben Lind, manufactured by Mogens Kold in Denmark in the early 1970s. Introduced in 1972, the “Roset” model stands out for its sculptural form and innovative construction, embodying the spirit of Danish modernism with a playful and organic twist.
The chair’s design is both functional and deeply expressive. Its unusual shape evokes the comfort of a nest, welcoming the sitter into a softly embracing form. The chair’s broad circular seat and gently curved split backrest encourage a relaxed lounging posture, creating an intimate and cocoon-like experience for the user. The feet, resembling fins, not only provide visual dynamism but also ensure stability, giving the piece a grounded yet airy presence. The body is constructed from three laminated plywood panels, precisely joined with visible brass screws that lend a subtle industrial touch while highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to structural detail. The model is upholstered in a premium wool and alpaca blend fabric, chosen for its softness, warmth, and luxurious texture. The light, tactile quality of the upholstery enhances the chair's inviting character and complements the warm natural tones and grain of the plywood shell.
The “Roset” model remains a rare piece that offers both sculptural impact and everyday warmth. It is an ideal statement chair capturing the balance between innovation, comfort, function, and aesthetics, that defines the best of Danish design from the period.
Condition:
Wear due to age and use. Some scratches and marks. Recently reupholstered in premium alpaca - wool blend fabric.
Dimensions:
35.63 in W x 31.50 in D x 23.43 in H; Seat Height 14.17 in
90.5 cm W x 80 cm D x 59.5 cm H; Seat Height 36 cm
About the designer:
Ole Gjerløv-Knudsen (1930-2009) was a Danish furniture architect. He studied at the School of Crafts, graduating in 1952 and then at the Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen until 1955. Gjerløv-Knudsen designed furniture series for both carpentry and industrial production in collaboration with fellow Danish furniture designer Torben Lind (1928-2016) from 1962.
Lind’s works showed a commitment to using the finest materials and extraordinary precision to create one-of-a-kind designs. Together, they became well-known for their light furniture in beech and plywood. The duo worked together at PP Møbler, creating furniture that became a trademark of Danish design.
During their long collaboration, Gjerløv-Knudsen and Lind designed numerous successful chair designs representing Danish mid-century modern, with special attention to outstanding comfort and ensuring long-lasting value by using quality materials. Many of their designs were produced by France & Son and Mogens Kold Møbelfabrik. The latter produced some of the most coveted furniture of the mid- 20th century. ~H.