Modernist Wooden Spinning Chair, Europe ca 1960s


































Modernist Wooden Spinning Chair, Europe ca 1960s
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
The ‘spinning chair’ is a historic type of seating with numerous modern interpretations across Europe - however, most preserved the main functional characteristics: solid wood, enduring, high quality craftsmanship, a tall, straight back for good posture and freedom of movement.
The art of spinning yarn is thousands of years old, but the spinning wheel as we know it is estimated to have arrived in Europe around the middle of the 13th century, and along with it came the three or four-legged spinning chair. The backs were often hand carved with various motifs or fantasy creatures, making each one unique and individual. During the 20th century, designers were inspired by the uniqueness of these chairs and reinterpreted them with a modern twist. The structure consists of straight and clean lines, with added subtle decorative elements. The simple ornamentation consists of three rounded shapes carved in the backrest, two of these resembling a three-leaf clover - possibly a reminder of the Celtic history of spinning chairs. In addition, the quality of the wood ensures simultaneously its durability and its aesthetic quality, with the construction of the piece showing off the wood grain to its best advantage.
This spinning chair remains ideal for craft spinners, however, it also possesses the visual qualities to be a perfect decorative accent piece for any space. It is a modern twist on the rich spinning history of Europe, and undoubtedly a beautiful addition to any interior.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
15.74 in W x 17.32 in D x 40.35 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Sear depth 14.37 in
40 cm W x 44 cm D x 102.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 36.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Swedish architect and furniture designer Axel Einar Hjorth served 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 the Stockholm archipelago – including Blidö, Lovö, and famously, Utö.
These Utö chairs were designed in 1932 as part of the collection. Unlike the department store's interiors for floors and villas in the cities, the Utö designs had a simple character with robust and basic shapes in solid pine. Accordingly, the design of these chairs focuses on simple lines and the material itself. Made of pine wood, these chairs are strong, reflecting Hjorth’s principles in which he mixed the ideals of the modernist movement with provincial Swedish traditions. As a result, the design of this set is completely timeless. Each chair demonstrates a conscious construction, where the joinery and fittings related to traditional craftsmanship are emphasized. Dominated by rounded, straight lines, the chairs have spindle backrests and ergonomically carved seats. The form alludes harmony and stability, fitting the summer cabin concept perfectly.
In an international perspective, Hjorth's “sportstugemöbler” series was the forerunner of later pioneering designers such as Charlotte Perriand. It is therefore no surprise that these Utö chairs became part of Swedish and international modernist design history. In their time, the Utö collection may have appeared as pioneering and radical, but today they are viewed as status symbols in interiors of international character.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and stains on the wood. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have scratches and discolouration.
Dimensions:
18.89 in W x 18.3 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 16.92 in
48 cm W x 46.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 43 cm
Literature:
Christian Bjork, Thomas Ekstrom and Eric Ericson, 'Axel Einar Hjorth: Mobelarkitekt', Stockholm, 2009, p.130
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 popularized 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. ~H.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
“Amsterdamse School” was an influential Dutch architectural and design movement that emerged in the early 20th century, and left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the Netherlands and on Europe on a larger scale. Beyond its architectural achievements, the Amsterdamse School also extended its influence to interior design and furniture, giving rise to a distinctive style that reflects a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, artistic expression, and social ideals exemplified by this pair of chairs with an enduring appeal, quality, and style.
The Amsterdamse School movement arose in response to the predominant influence of Art Nouveau and Jugendstil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Designers sought to integrate form and functionality seamlessly, resulting in furniture pieces that were not only visually striking but also practical. The construction of these chairs is solid and balanced, yet does not shy from a dynamic interplay of shapes: the bold geometry of the backrests contrasts with the smooth linearity of the base. Subtle, intricate detailing can be observed in this pair as well, from the tightly fit upholstery to the carved wooden back and legs, and, before all else, a strong emphasis on craftsmanship. The simple, warm colour palette and gentle design make this pair of chairs an ideal addition to both contemporary and traditional living spaces. It is evident that the maker of these chairs was highly aware of body proportions, prioritising comfort just as much as the visual qualities.
This pair is a timeless addition to any room, blending sculptural presence with everyday functionality. As with much of the Amsterdamse School’s work, these chairs stand as enduring examples of early 20th century Dutch design at its finest; warm, distinctive, and thoughtfully made.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items have marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration. The chairs have recently been reupholstered. 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:
18.7 in W x 21.45 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 20.07 in; Seat depth 17.13 in
47 cm W x 45 cm D x 97.5 cm H; Seat height 53 cm; Seat depth 43.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This impressive mid-century dining set is representative of the fundamental principles of Scandinavian design that revolve around quality and functionality, paired with a distinctive design.
The set consists of six chairs made of solid oak with a beautiful grain and colour. The style and shape of the frames have a strong angular structure featuring straight as well as curved edges. The design also combines the natural impression of traditional Scandinavian style, and as a result, this set has a visually arresting and individual aesthetic. The stand-out visual appeal is provided by the backrests, with the famous razorblade-esque shape that is the trademark design element of Kjærnulf. The details, such as the joinery and woodworking, further reveal the focus on high quality craftsmanship of the designer. The chairs feature light upholstered seats that complement the beautiful oaken wood colour and provide ample comfort, making this an ideal and impressive dining set
Thanks to their intricate design, these chairs are a perfect match for an understated dining table to create an ideal and visually interesting dining set.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium 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:
18.31 in W x 20.67 in D x 35.24 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 18.31 in
46.5 cm W x 52.5 cm D x 89.5 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 46.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The unique design style, “Amsterdamse School”, was an influential Dutch architectural and design movement that emerged in the early 20th century, which left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the Netherlands and on Europe on a larger scale. Beyond its architectural achievements, the Amsterdamse School also extended its influence to interior design and furniture, giving rise to a distinctive style that reflects a harmonious blend of craftsmanship, artistic expression, and social ideals exemplified by this pair of chairs with an enduring appeal, quality, and style.
The frames are deliberately straightforward yet bold, giving the chairs a grounded presence that feels both honest and enduring. Each piece features squared legs connected by stretchers that reinforce the straight structure while maintaining a clean visual rhythm. The seats and backrests are upholstered in a textured green fabric that complements the wood, adding softness and comfort to the otherwise solid construction. This upholstery provides a tactile contrast to the geometry of the frames, making the chairs inviting without losing their disciplined form. From every angle, the chairs reveal thoughtful joinery and a careful balance of shape, with no unnecessary embellishment, only purposeful design choices that emphasise durability, comfort, and visual cohesion.
The set's geometric elements makes them a perfect addition to any interior, perfect for bringing an effortlessly elegant element to a room. With their clean lines, understated presence and quality materials, these chairs exude a sense of timelessness, while simultaneously maintaining their versatility.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The set has recently been reupholstered. 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:
18.5 in W x 19.29 in D x 37.79 in H; Seat height 19.48 in; Seat depth 18.3 in
47 cm W x 49 cm D x 96 cm H; Seat height 49.5 cm; Seat depth 46.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Rach Finazzi, an Italian designer active from the late 20th century, is recognised for a distinctive approach to furniture-making that merges geometric structures with unique materials. Finazzi’s work often explores unconventional forms and material contrasts, from glass to metal and wood, resulting in pieces that command attention both as functional furniture and as sculptural statements.
This geometric dining chair is a quintessential example of Finazzi’s design ethos, the chair is characterised by a striking interplay between an angular metal framework, natural wood, and plush sheepskin. The chair rests on slender, black metal legs that intersect to create a dynamic, sculptural base, flowing into the arms. The composition feels both visually light and structurally stable. Adding to the design, the backrest is crafted from solid wood in a dramatically tapered, triangular form. The back introduces an architectural element that draws the eye upward, establishing a visual dialogue between the angular metal structure and the natural wood grain. To fully drive in the textural juxtaposition, the seat is upholstered in longhair sheepskin, adding a warm, inviting texture that contrasts beautifully with the cool, industrial feel of the metal frame and the earthy wooden backrest.
More than just seating, this dining chair functions as a sculptural piece that showcases Finazzi’s ability to harmonise disparate materials and forms. The combination of materials creates a compelling visual and tactile experience, showcasing the skill and creativity of Italian craftsmanship. Whether arranged around a dining table with other pieces or displayed as a standalone accent piece, the chair encapsulates a bold design language, merging functionality with a strong artistic presence.
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 marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seat has been reupholstered recently in a 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:
19.29 in W x 22.04 in D x 44.68 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 24.40 in
49 cm W x 56 cm D x 113.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 62 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Axel Einar Hjorth’s designs 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 often incorporated playful ornamentation from different historical periods by which he was inspired, such as the French Art Déco, using mixed exotic woods, bright colours, and textiles, as this pair or “Radio” chairs showcase.
Designed in the first half of the 20th century, these armchairs possess a refined and slender appearance with distinctive details. The sleek wooden frames offer a beautiful contrast to the neat upholstery of the seats, creating a visually captivating aesthetic. Together, they make for a harmonious balance between contemporary elegance and traditional style. Even though Swedish design is generally democratic and meant for the masses, pieces were not stripped of all beauty for the sake of functionality. The importance of this balance can be identified in the design and execution of these chairs as well. The craftsmanship displayed in this model is a testament to the high standards of Swedish design in the early 20th century, reflecting both the technical skill and artistic vision of both Hjorth and Nordiska Kompaniet. This pair not only serves as a timeless work of art, but also showcases the elegance and innovation of the era.
The Swedish company Nordiska Kompaniet manufactured this pair with utmost care for its quality and design. Axel Einar Hjorth worked as the lead designer for the department store from 1926 to 1938. The company was among the most renowned Swedish manufacturers during the mid-century era, and this "Radio" model is a prime example of the great success of their works.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the age and nature of the wood, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs come with their original upholstery or have been reupholstered by a previous owner. We recommend reupholstery due to some signs of wear. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 19.29 in D x 37.20 in H; Seat height 17.12 in; Seat depth 15.55 in
49 cm W x 49 cm D x 94.5 cm H; Seat height 43.5 cm; Seat depth 39.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Throughout the mid-20th century, European furniture makers embraced an aesthetic rooted in simplicity, craftsmanship, and the expressive qualities of natural materials. Traditional chair forms were refined with cleaner silhouettes and careful attention to proportion. This set of twelve ladderback chairs reflects that evolution, with slatted backs and woven seats in a restrained mid-century approach.
Each chair is crafted from solid beech, with gently turned details ending in small finials that lend the design a subtle vertical emphasis. Four slightly curved ladderback slats create a rhythmic structure that follows the natural contour of the back, while the woven rush seats introduce warmth and texture against the smooth timber. The seats are tightly executed, their classically intricate pattern contrasting with the simplicity of the frame and providing a comfortable, sturdy seating surface. Beneath, the legs are connected by traditional box stretchers, reinforcing the structure while adding visual depth to the open framework. The softly rounded edges, restrained turning, and warm honey-toned beech highlight the quality of the craftsmanship, allowing the natural materials to define the character of the chairs rather than excessive ornament.
These chairs demonstrate the enduring appeal of traditional construction interpreted through a modern lens. Their balanced proportions, honest materials, and durable craftsmanship make them a versatile dining set that celebrates the lasting qualities of European furniture making.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials the chairs have minor marks, scratches, dents and discolouration.
Dimensions:
17.32 in W x 18.30 in D x 42.52 in H; Seat height 18.70 in; Seat depth 16.53 in
44 cm W x 46.5 cm D x 108 cm H; Seat height 47.5 cm; Seat depth 42 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Many associate the design duo, Robert Guillerme and Jacques Chambron, with some of the most recognisable and enduring French furniture of the second half of the 20th century. Working for their workshop Votre Maison, founded in the 1950s, the pair developed a design language that merged modernist ideals with a rustic sensibility and deep respect for craftsmanship. Known especially for their use of solid oak, expressive lines, and thoughtful detailing, Guillerme et Chambron created pieces that feel as relevant today as they did during the mid-century.
This set of four dining chairs displays the qualities that make Guillerme et Chambron’s work so iconic. Constructed in solid oak, the frames are characterised by gently tapered legs, finely proportioned stretchers, and a subtle refinement that never compromises their structural integrity. The backrests provide the defining visual feature: two angled frames supporting a carved horizontal element showcasing a delicate cut-out, which introduces a sculptural detail that immediately distinguishes the design. Though understated, this feature echoes the handcrafted quality found throughout Guillerme and Chambron's work. The contrast between the generous soft textile and the golden oak creates a harmony that feels thoughtful and balanced. Viewed together, the repeated silhouettes establish a strong rhythm around the dining table, their balanced proportions allowing the set to feel elegant without appearing rigid
This set has the power to shape the atmosphere of a room with quiet confidence, bringing warmth, craft, and intention into daily life. The set represent Votre Maison’s philosophy, and stands as an enduring example of French mid-century design at its best.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the material, the items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The set has recently been reupholstered. 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:
18.7 in W x 21.45 in D x 34.44 in H; Seat height 20.07 in; Seat depth 17.32 in
47.5 cm W x 54.5 cm D x 87.5 cm H; Seat height 51 cm; Seat depth 44 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Working against the minimal shapes and ergonomic design of streamlined mid-century European furniture, the maker of this side chair moved away from highly polished factory uniformity and toward more expressive, hand-worked forms. In smaller workshops especially, chairs like this were shaped through carving and direct craftsmanship, allowing irregular contours, visible tool marks, and natural grain variation to remain part of the final appearance rather than something to conceal.
This chair retains clearly visible traces of hand construction: uneven carving and forms shaped by the maker’s hand rather than by machinery. Pieces of this kind sit between functional furniture and sculptural woodworking, reflecting a period when natural materials and individual craftsmanship remained central to modern interiors. This piece carries visual rhythm through the relationship between the seat, legs, and backrest. The back rises from a single central support and widen into broad asymmetrical crests, the silhouette cuts with irregular contours that make it one of a kind. Instead of polished precision, the wood has a raw tactile quality, with visible grain variation, softened edges, and surfaces that reveal the carving process. The outward-angled legs create a stable stance and complete the design. Because the construction is uniform in terms of material, every detail becomes noticeable: the slight taper of the legs, the thickness of the wood, the way the backrest appears almost branch-like in profile.
The piece has a strong physical presence without relying on decorative excess, feeling intimate rather than polished and formal. It is individual, balancing utilitarian construction with a sculptural, almost folk-like sensibility.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Some marks, scratches and discolouration are present.
Dimensions:
17.72 in W x 19.49 in D x 28.75 in H; Seat height 15.94 in; Seat depth 14.38 in
45 cm W x 49.5 cm D x 73 cm H; Seat height 40.5 cm; Seat depth 36.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 30,000 - 40,000 usd / eur
The 1960s and 1970s saw Italian interior design become world renowned and revered. This set of four “Africa” chairs were born from the creative genius of design-duo Afra and Tobia Scarpa in the mid-1970s. They are a perfect combination of simplicity, functionality, and aesthetic.
This set was part of the Artona line by the Scarpa’s and was also the first line ever produced by Maxalto. The company was originally set up in 1975 as an exclusive branch of B&B Italia to focus solely on the production of artisanal furniture that was primarily crafted from wood. As we find ourselves in a design era that embraces the nostalgia of the mid-20th century, this set of four serves as both an homage to the past and a testament to the timeless allure of Afra and Tobia Scarpa’s work. In these chairs, the pattern and grain of the walnut backrests is striking, showing the traces of history in every line and mark. Sensitive touches enliven the design, visible in the careful craftsmanship and quality of woodworking with impeccable joinery that masterfully utilises nothing but the wood itself. The colour of the leather seats matches the walnut body beautifully, further enhancing the visual appeal. Another impressing element is the centrally placed back leg that continues upwards to form the backrests, highlighting the Scarpas’ architectural expertise. Through its eccentric geometries and expressive forms these chairs are perfect for any interior.
Tobia Scarpa once said “I make things as I know how, and I try to be simple, without arrogance”, a sentiment that is apparent in these chairs. The emphasis on quality craftsmanship and the use of noble materials like walnut has undeniably left a lasting imprint and solidified the “Africa” model’s legacy in the Italian design landscape.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
22.04 in W x 18.50 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 16.14 in
56 cm W x 47 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 41 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
French seating design from the 1940s often sits at the intersection between late Art Deco and the early stages of modernism. While earlier decades favoured more elaborate ornamentation, this period saw a gradual simplification of form, with designers focusing more on proportion, silhouette, and comfort. Upholstered side chairs became increasingly common in domestic interiors, offering a more relaxed alternative to rigid dining or occasional seating.
This side chair follows that direction through its restrained yet carefully shaped form. From the rounded back, to the tapered wooden legs, its elements that reflect both the elegance of Art Deco and a move toward more practical, everyday use. The structure is defined by a softly curved backrest that sits slightly detached from the seat, creating a light, open transition between the two elements. The upholstery, in a warm burnt tone, gives the chair its visual identity, introducing both colour and a soft texture that contrasts with the sleek and slender wooden legs below. These legs taper subtly toward the floor, offering sturdiness and support while keeping the overall composition visually light. The seat itself is compact and gently rounded at the edges, echoing the curvature of the backrest and contributing to a cohesive silhouette. There is a clear sense of balance between the upholstered volumes and the exposed wooden structure, with both elements working together. The proportions are modest but deliberate, allowing the chair to function comfortably without appearing heavy or overly decorative.
This piece is not designed to command attention and overpower a space, but rather to work as an accent within a living space. The warmth of the upholstery and the simplicity of the frame make it easy to integrate, while the subtle shaping ensures it retains character.
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 may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair has recently been 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:
18.51 in W x 21.66 in D x 32.68 in H; Seat height 20.28 in; Seat depth 17.72 in
47 cm W x 55 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 51.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm