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: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Etienne Kohlmann was a French interior decorator and designer during the early to mid-20th century. This set of dining chairs was crafted in the 1930s, and its design and execution show how the aesthetic and functional dimensions were of equal importance for Kohlmann.
This set is all about the gorgeous wooden structure. The discreet joinery and seamless construction reflect the French emphasis on detail and quality, elevating the chairs beyond just function to objects of aesthetic value. The carved backrests of this set immediately stand out. The dark-stained oak reveals a rich grain and depth, enhancing the organic beauty of the carved surface. Since the wood has a deep, rich tone, it pairs beautifully with the burnt-orange mohair upholstery, offering a restrained yet sophisticated material contrast. Overall, the construction is solid and balanced, yet it does not shy from a dynamic interplay of shapes: the bold geometry of the backrests contrasts with the smooth linearity of the base. This sense of proportion reflects the maker’s background in both cabinetmaking and art, speaking to his interest in giving weight and presence to utilitarian forms.
This set is a timeless addition to any dining room, blending sculptural presence with everyday functionality. As with much of Etienne Kohlmann’s work, these chairs stand as enduring examples of French mid-century 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 and reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.48 in W x 20.07 in D x 35.82 in H; Seat height 20.07 in; Seat depth 16.92 in
49.5 cm W x 51 cm D x 91 cm H; Seat height 51 cm; Seat depth 43 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
René Prou was one of the leading figures of French decorative arts during the first half of the twentieth century. He began his career as artistic director for the house of Gouffé, where he developed a reputation for refined interiors and exceptional craftsmanship. Over the following decades, Prou received prestigious commissions ranging from luxury ocean liner cabins to the council chamber of the Comptoir d’Escompte de Paris, while also serving as director and professor at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs.
Prou’s work became known for its elegant curved forms, decorative restraint, and innovative treatment of metal, particularly through his “zinzin maison” technique, which gave metal a flexibility and visual softness similar to rattan. This set of three armchairs attributed to René Prou reflects these qualities associated with his work. The chairs are built around slender blackened metal frames that curve fluidly to form the legs, arm supports, and decorative details beneath the seats. Rather than concealing the structure beneath upholstery, the metalwork remains fully visible and becomes central to the composition. The flowing lines introduce rhythm and movement throughout the design. In contrast, the upholstered seat and back cushions are restrained, covered in a neutral fabric that balances the delicacy of the frame with a greater sense of solidity and comfort. The cylindrical arm cushions further soften the composition while reinforcing the linear direction of the armrests.
Despite the decorative quality of the metalwork, the chairs retain a remarkable sense of openness due to the thinness of the structure and the spacing between elements. These armchairs carry a light, and almost architectural presence, where the curves of the metal frame create visual movement without overwhelming the composition. The result is a set that functions equally well as practical seating and as sculptural interior pieces.
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 items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The armchairs have recently been reupholstered 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:
21.65 in W x 27.36 in D x 38.19 in H; Seat height 15.75 in; Seat depth 18.90 in; Arm height 24.81 in
55 cm W x 69.5 cm D x 97 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 63 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: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This pair of chairs, crafted in France in the first half of the 20th century, was designed in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, one of the most distinctive figures in French decorative arts of the interwar period. Dudouyt’s work is often celebrated for its rustic charm, and masterful handling of wood, bridging tradition with the evolving aesthetics of Art Deco and modern design.
The use of wood and wicker to craft this pair of chairs belongs to a tradition that valued honest workmanship and the tactile richness of natural materials - this material choice allowed for the creation of objects that feel grounded, inviting, and timeless. The richly toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades. The seats are made from woven wicker, offering comfort without sacrificing the chair's sculptural integrity. The wooden frames are skillfully carved, with each chair featuring a beautiful geometric backrest that not only provides ergonomic support but also adds an element of elegance. Ideal for both contemporary and vintage-inspired settings, this pair embodies the timeless appeal of 20th century European design. Whether arranged around a dining table or used as standalone pieces, these chairs make a bold yet refined statement of style and comfort.
Functional yet sculptural, rustic yet refined, this set stands as an enduring testament of the striking balance only master woodworkers are able to create.
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, minor marks, scratches, dents, and discolouration are present. The wicker seating of the chairs show signs of wear.
Dimensions:
17.91 in W x 19.68 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 18.11 in; Seat depth 19.14 in
45.5 cm W x 50 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 41 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The mid-20th century was a period defined by balance, where designers sought to merge craftsmanship and simplicity. In Europe, this shift meant a return to honest materials and quiet proportions that allowed form and function to exist in harmony. Beech, with its warm tone and adaptability, became a favoured wood in this era, embodying the modernist belief that beauty could emerge from structure itself.
This set of four dining chairs captures that philosophy perfectly. Each chair features a softly curved backrest that offers both comfort and rhythm, accentuated by an expertly carved horizontal slat for subtle texture and visual warmth. The gentle curve of the back gives the piece a sculptural quality, inviting the sitter into a posture that feels both natural and upright. The frames are crafted from beech wood - the smooth finish highlights the material’s fine grain and warm hue. The craftsmanship is evident in the precise silhouette and careful shaping of each component, a testament to the quality of European cabinetmaking during this period. The upholstered seats are covered in a light, neutral fabric that complements the wood’s tone while providing a soft counterpoint to the structure beneath. The proportions are elegant, with slightly tapered legs that create a sense of lift and balance. Every detail, from the gentle sweep of the backrest to the textural contrast between materials, reflects a commitment to harmony and restraint.
Together, the four chairs embody a quiet sophistication that feels timeless. The pieces are functional in purpose yet graceful in presence, capturing the quiet sophistication that defined mid-century European design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Items may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration due to the age and nature of the material. The seats have 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:
19.68 in W x 18.11 in D x 34.25 in H; Seat height 18.50 in; Seat depth 16.53 in
50 cm W x 46 cm D x 87 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 42 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
France occupied a unique position in the development of post-war furniture design. Many designers embraced the possibilities offered by industrial materials - retaining a sensitivity to proportion and decoration that distinguished French work from the stricter functionalism found elsewhere in Europe. Dining chairs became an ideal canvas for this approach, combining lightweight construction with elegant silhouettes that could bring rhythm and refinement to an interior.
The backrests are what immediately capture the eye - formed from a series of slender vertical rods, they rise in a gentle, fan-like construction that gives each chair a remarkable sense of lightness. The open frame allows the surrounding space to remain visible through the chairs, preventing the set from visually overwhelming a room even when placed together around a table. The black lacquered metal provides a crisp graphic outline, while the upholstered seats introduce warmth and tactility. Together, these elements create a striking contrast between line and volume, precision and softness. Arranged as a group, the repeated bars generate a rhythmic pattern that feels almost architectural, recalling the delicate ironwork found throughout mid-century French design.
The success of the set lies in its ability to be both decorative and discreet. The chairs possess a strong identity, yet their form allows them to integrate in a space. Elegant from every angle and highly versatile, they demonstrate how thoughtful use of materials and proportion can transform a functional object.
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 items have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:
18.89 in W x 18.11 in D x 36.41 in H; Seat height 18.70 in; Seat depth 16.14 in
48 cm W x 46 cm D x 92.5 cm H; Seat height 47.5 cm; Seat depth 41 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Mid-century European design was shaped by a growing interest in combining traditional craftsmanship with modern forms. Across much of the continent, furniture makers moved away from heavy historical revival styles, yet they rarely embraced the strict industrial minimalism seen elsewhere. Instead, designers worked with solid woods, natural textiles, and carefully considered construction, creating pieces that felt both contemporary and rooted in long-standing cabinetmaking traditions.
Dining chairs like this set of eight reveal how furniture makers used small details to give their pieces a distinct identity. The most striking characteristic of the model is the ladder-back construction. Each backrest is composed of three horizontal slats, their undulating silhouettes introducing movement and depth to the otherwise linear frame. The repetition of these forms creates a distinctive rhythm across the set, particularly when the chairs are arranged around a table. The solid proportions and thick wooden elements offer the set a strong, imposing feel. Beneath the seats, stretchers reinforce the structure while echoing the decorative language of the backrests. The seats themselves are upholstered in green mohair, introducing a softer surface that contrasts with the firmness of the oak. The richness of the fabric adds depth to the composition, while its organic tone complements the natural warmth of the wood.
Viewed as a complete set, the chairs possess a strong collective presence, allowing individual details to create a stronger visual effect when viewed together. The 1960s produced furniture that valued material quality and durability while still allowing room for individual character and regional influences - perfectly visible within this set.
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 some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chairs have 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:
17.92 in W x 18.51 in D x 42.52 in H; Seat height 20.48 in
45.5 cm W x 47 cm D x 108 cm H; Seat height 52 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This set of dining chairs, crafted in France in the first half of the 20th century, was designed in the manner of Charles Dudouyt, one of the most distinctive figures in French decorative arts of the interwar period. Dudouyt’s work is often celebrated for its rustic charm, and masterful handling of wood, bridging tradition with the evolving aesthetics of Art Deco and modern design.
This set embodies 20th century design qualities through its grounded presence and confident use of materials. This design is all about the wooden structures. The discreet joinery and seamless construction reflect the French emphasis on detail and quality, elevating the chairs beyond just function to objects of aesthetic value. The chairs are made from solid wood in a rich, dark stain that accentuates the natural grain to create subtle warmth and depth. Furthermore, the woven straw seats of the chairs feature a decorative pattern, seamlessly blending function with aesthetics. The choice of the textured seats complements the wood frames, creating a harmonious visual appeal. The silhouettes of these chairs are reduced to the essentials, with upright backrests and square seats supported by slender legs.
This set of chairs is ideal for a space that embraces authenticity and values materials in their natural form. Their clean look and rustic sensibility make them stand out without the need for embellishment, offering a quiet but impactful addition to an interior.
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.
Dimensions:
17.33 in W x 18.12 in D x 38.78 in H; Seat height 18.12 in; Seat depth 16.34 in
44 cm W x 46 cm D x 98.5 cm H; Seat height 46 cm; Seat depth 41.5 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Working against the minimal shapes and ergonomic design of streamlined mid-century European furniture, the maker of these chairs moved away from highly polished factory uniformity and toward more expressive, hand-worked forms. In smaller workshops especially, chairs like these 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 set of three 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 set carries visual rhythm through the relationship between the seats, legs, and backrests. The backs rise from a single central support and widen into broad asymmetrical crests, their silhouettes cut with irregular contours that make each chair slightly different from the next. 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 backrests appear almost branch-like in profile.
The set has a strong physical presence without relying on decorative excess, feeling intimate rather than polished and formal. Each piece is individual, balancing utilitarian construction with a sculptural, almost folk-like sensibility.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have 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 15.95 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: 2,500 - 5,000 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 pair of geometric dining chairs is a quintessential example of Finazzi’s design ethos, they are characterised by a striking interplay between angular metal frameworks, natural wood, and plush sheepskin. The chairs rest 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 backrests are crafted from solid wood in a dramatically tapered, triangular form. The backs introduce 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 seats are 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 pair functions as sculptural pieces that showcase 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 or displayed as standalone accent pieces, they encapsulate a bold design language, merging functionality with a strong artistic presence.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The items have recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seats have 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: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Few forms reveal the hand of the maker as directly as carved wooden furniture. Throughout the mid-twentieth century, a number of European designers and artisans rejected the increasingly industrial character of furniture production in favour of pieces that celebrated irregularity, uniqueness, and the expressive qualities of solid wood.
This set of five chairs occupies a space between functional furniture and sculpture, drawing inspiration from traditions of folk art, and the organic forms found in nature. The maker of this set embraced rough textures, asymmetry, and forms that appeared almost primitive, showing Brutalist inspiration. These chairs are striking through their plank backs, each carved from a substantial piece of wood that features intentionally irregular contours. Rather than concealing tool marks, the surfaces preserve them, creating a richly textured appearance that gives each chair a distinct personality. The broad backrests rise tall above the seats, lending the set a powerful presence, while the tapering widths and organic outlines prevent the composition from feeling rigid. The backs continue down to the ground, creating a tripod base together with two slender front legs. The warm patina of the wood accentuates every carved depression and undulation, allowing light to animate the surface and reveal the depth of the craftsmanship involved. Despite their unconventional appearance, these chairs balance visual drama with functionality.
Gathered around a dining table, this set creates an atmosphere that feels both elemental and sophisticated. The silhouettes ensure a strong visual impact even when not in use, while the material choice and construction give them an enduring authenticity.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the wood, the dining chairs have some marks, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
16.53 in W x 18.11 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 16.92 in; Seat depth 14.96 in
42 cm W x 46 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 38 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Guillerme et Chambron held a central place in mid-century French design, as their work bridged the gap between form and function. With their studio, Votre Maison, the duo developed a design language rooted in expressive silhouettes and a commitment to organic materials, using oak in their most iconic pieces. Their works reflects a deep respect for the art of furniture making and for the people who use their pieces, which is why their designs remain so popular today.
This set of four dining chairs displays the qualities that make Guillerme et Chambron’s work so instantly recognisable. The carved oak frames are shaped in a clean and expressive way. The sabre legs lift the chairs lightly, giving them stability and sturdiness. The backrests showcase a geometric shape, with a round opening carved into the triangular form. This represents the type of small but meaningful detail that defined mid-20th century furniture. A cross structure supports each seat, reinforcing the model while also showcasing expert craftsmanship. Upholstered in a textured bouclé fabric, the seats add warmth to the wood. The contrast between the soft textile and the golden oak creates a harmony that feels thoughtful and balanced. Viewed together, the four chairs create an elegant composition. The individuality of each backrest, the subtle tapering of the legs, and the visible grain of the oak make the set feel both timeless and unique.
Placed around a table, this set shapes the atmosphere of a room with quiet confidence, bringing warmth, craft, and intention into daily life. They represent Votre Maison’s philosophy and remain a reminder of how design can elevate a space. This set 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 wood, the chairs may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seats have recently been reupholstered in premium bouclé 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:
18.11 in W x 19.29 in D x 35.03 in H; Seat height 19.88 in
46 cm W x 49 cm D x 89 cm; Seat height 50.5 cm
About the designer:
Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boulle where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops.
In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known.
The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the 20th century, with Jacques’ son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the École Boulle, having taken the reins in 1983.