Rope Armchair by Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet for Vibo Vesoul, France ca 1950s
















Rope Armchair by Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet for Vibo Vesoul, France ca 1950s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
This armchair is a compelling embodiment of the French design duo Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet. Their design philosophy was centered around a commitment to accessible furnishing made out of natural materials that suit the rhythms of modern life. Active in mid-20th century France, they played a crucial role in shaping post-war design. Drawing inspiration from modernist movements, they steered the view of design towards a more functional, refined, and streamlined aesthetic.
This chair showcases excellent craftsmanship, care, and precision, visible in the smallest details of the design. The woven seat and backrest, composed of finely braided natural fibres, offer both support and comfort, gently adapting to the shape of the body for a relaxed resting experience. Unlike most chairs, this unique design does not utilise the typical four legs - instead, the structure flows seamlessly into a wide curve that comprises the frame and is the visual highlight of the chair’s form. The armrests appear to be curving down and back in two smooth lines, partially creating a supporting base. The structure of the base is further enforced by a stretcher between the two pieces of bentwood, enhancing stability. Another interesting design detail are the cylinder supports at the front where the arms and base meet, which act as a reinforcement while still maintaining harmony with the rest of the piece. This clever element helps to create a scooped base that supports the entire seat. The bent wood creates a fluid connection, giving the seat a sense of suspension - a light, almost floating presence - with the open surface of the seating and back further enhancing the airy characteristic of the armchair. Though the back rail is a separate piece between the two large curved elements it visually continues the line of the arms, creating the sense of a frame that gracefully encloses the seat.
The impressive silhouette of the armchair is defined by the choice of solid bentwood and woven rope as materials, and techniques that require expert skill, all poured into the final result to create this graceful form. The timeless appeal of this piece complements a wide range of interior styles, capable of transforming any environment with its organic appearance in both form and medium.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
25 in W x 27.55 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
63.5 cm W x 70 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 41 cm
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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