Modernist Armchair in the manner of Jan Den Drijver, The Netherlands Mid-20th Century
















Modernist Armchair in the manner of Jan Den Drijver, The Netherlands Mid-20th Century
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
In the decades after World War II, furniture across Europe pursued a careful balance between simplicity and craftsmanship. In the Netherlands as well as in Scandinavia, there was a rejection of heavy ornament and instead the focus fell on materials like solid wood and textiles while keeping the overall form simple and purposeful. Chairs from this period often reflect a belief that good design should be both visually pleasant and functionally comfortable.
This modernist armchair, in the manner of Jan den Drijver, illustrates these principles through a straightforward yet thoughtful construction. The frame is built from solid wood, finished to reveal a warm, natural grain that highlights its organic beauty. The backrest rises with a gentle backward slope, providing ergonomic support without excess bulk, and the wide, flat armrests extend forward in a smooth and sleek line that aligns with the sitter’s posture. The seat and backrest surround the upholstery, a textured fabric that contrasts softly with the wood while maintaining a neutral palette. The cushions are padded to increase comfort. The legs are sturdy and substantial, ensuring support while not taking away from the rest of the design. This unadorned construction allows the quality of the piece to remain the focus - the clear form, the seamless joinery, and the dialogue between materials allows for the chair to feel timeless and considered rather than fleeting or overtly stylised.
Functionally and visually, this armchair 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, libraries, 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. Minor scratches and discolouration. Due to the nature of the material, the item may have some additional marks. The chair has 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:
27.36 in W x 31.49 in D x 30.31 in H ; Seat height 16.33 in; Seat depth 21.85 in; Arm height 22.04 in
69.5 cm W x 80 cm D x 77 cm H ; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 55.5 cm; Arm height 56 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