Haagse School Armchair, The Netherlands First half of the 20th Century
Haagse School Armchair, The Netherlands First half of the 20th Century
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
In 1920, the term "Nieuwe Haagse School" was first mentioned by the architect C.J. Blaauw. And not in a positive way. Blaauw thought nothing of the latest developments in modern architecture. "Typical of The Hague" - that was how the designer spoke of the style. The movement blossomed between 1925 and 1940 and brought uniformity to the cityscape. The Hague School style is closely related to the Amsterdam School and the Bauhaus movement, but has more-so been influenced by Art Deco, and it drew a great deal of inspiration from Berlage's rationalism, the Arts and Crafts movement, and De Stijl.
Standing as evidence of the reason many Dutch architects succeeded at the craft of furniture design; the precision of the structure is evident at first glance, showing great geometric order. Driven by function, the maker’s focus was evidently on practicality, structural stability, and a design in favour of these principles. The construction of this chair is traditional and robust - it features a solid yet graceful frame, crafted from a warm, rich wood, which highlights the natural grain of the material. The arms and backrests showcase a sense of airiness. This neat detail accentuates the high level of woodworking and creates an effortless look. The arms’ angles are aligned with the seats and backs’ angles, resulting in a harmonious look while also being ergonomic, with solid support for the spine. The sitting comfort is pleasant, further aided by the stability the sturdy wooden legs provide. The frame is complemented by the elegant rope seat woven tightly in the wood, with the material of the seat giving the piece a warm and cosy feel all while staying very functional. The chair’s simplicity and honest elegance makes it an exceptional piece of furniture.
Haagse School furniture wasn’t flashy but instead focused on being well-made and to fit a warm, comfortable and welcoming home. As this chair exemplifies, blending functionality, good quality natural materials and organic colours with excellent craftsmanship is the key to the success of this design period.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
22.04 in W x 21.85 in D x 33.66 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 19.48 in; Arm height 26.57 in
56 cm W x 55.5 cm D x 85.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 49.5 cm; Arm height 67.5 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Belgian Brutalist furniture design in the 20th century mirrored the country's complex cultural and political tapestry. Nestled between the influences of neighbouring European design powerhouses, Belgian designers carved a distinctive niche that blended functionality with an uncompromising commitment to artistic expression.
The Brutalist movement, though often associated with architecture, influenced furniture makers who explored volume, geometry, and materials to create designs that were both functional and sculptural. Emerging during the mid-twentieth century, the movement favoured solid timber, bold proportions, and exposed joinery, allowing the inherent qualities of the mediums to shape the final design. These benches are distinguished by their commanding simplicity. Broad solid oak planks form both the seats and backrests, their dimensions conveying a sense of strength. The design is defined by the long horizontal lines, the impeccable joinery, and the natural, raw beauty of the oak. The backrests appear to hover above the seats on diagonal supports. The natural splits, knots, and variations in the grain have been preserved on the surface through the passage of time, reinforcing the individuality of each bench and highlighting the character of the oak. The dark tone further enriches the look, lending depth to the broad surfaces while accentuating the tactile quality of the material. These benches can be incorporated into any space thanks to their classic look, not to mention the functionality.
Whether placed opposite one another, alongside a dining table, or within an entrance hall, the pair possesses a sculptural presence that extends beyond their practical function. Their restrained vocabulary reflects the essence of Belgian Brutalist design without excess or embellishment.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The benches have recently been reconditioned. Some cracks are present. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
Bench 1
98.22 in W x 17.71 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat Height 16.14 in; Seat Depth 14.17 in
249.5 cm W x 45 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat Height 41 cm; Seat Depth 36 cm
Bench 2
98.42 in W x 18.89 in D x 30.51 in H; Seat Height 15.94 in; Seat Depth 14.56 in
250 cm W x 48 cm D x 77.5 cm H; Seat Height 40.5 cm; Seat Depth 37 cm