Modernist Armchair with Woven Seat, The Netherlands First half of the 20th Century

















Modernist Armchair with Woven Seat, The Netherlands First half of the 20th Century
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
20th century Dutch furniture design was characterised by a blend of modernist influences and a commitment to functionality. Wooden furniture from this time period often featured clean lines and a focus on the natural beauty of the wood, as seen with this armchair.
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 chair features a decorative element on the backrest that resembles an upside down tower in the middle or two towers side by side, which effortlessly increases the visual appeal. 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 into 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.
Dutch furniture design 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. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Minor scratches and discolouration. Due to the nature of the wood, the item may have some additional marks.
Dimensions:
18.50 in W x 18.89 in D x 36.02 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 17.32 in
47 cm W x 48 cm D x 91.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 44 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
This remarkable armchair was designed by German artist, Willi Ohler. The so-called “Worpsweder” either denote chairs made at the Worpsweder Kunsthütten (Worpsweder arts huts) in Germany, or a specific style of German chairs with solid wood frames, broad armrests, often from tall wood, with woven seats and backs. This piece features all of those characteristics.
Crafted during a time when movements like Modernism were reshaping design worldwide, this early 20th-century armchair reflect a transitional style rooted in both simplicity and elegance. This era emphasises clean lines, unique shapes, and high-quality craftsmanship to achieve timeless pieces like this one. The honey-toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The softly sculpted armrests framing the chair bring both elegance and ergonomic comfort to the overall form. Woven wicker is the main highlight of the piece. The material is used to construct the seat and tall backrest. The beautifully symmetrical pattern showcases the timeless artistry of artisanal furniture. The rectangular, slim legs create a sleek structure while not abandoning sturdiness. This chair preserves the value and beauty of master craftsmanship and exquisite materials.
Worpswede in Lower Saxony is famous nationwide for its long tradition as an artists' colony. Nowadays, about 130 artists and craftsmen and women live there permanently. The artists who created the so called "Worpsweder Kuentlerkolonie" were looking for the simple and original in art and life. The traditional reed and rush woven chairs of this region were greatly appreciated by the artists of the colony, and some of them were still produced around 1900-1920. They have become collectors’ pieces thanks to the craftsmanship that went into each chair’s creation.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials the item has minor scratches and discolouration.
Dimensions:
34.64 in W x 33.07 in D x 46.45 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Seat depth 19.68 in; Arm height 24.80 in
88 cm W x 84 cm D x 118 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 63 cm