Theo Ruth "Model 105" Hairpin Armchair for Artifort, Netherlands 1950s


























Theo Ruth "Model 105" Hairpin Armchair for Artifort, Netherlands 1950s
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
Among the pantheon of talented individuals who have worked for Artifort, Theo Ruth was the acclaimed Dutch furniture manufacturer’s first permanent designer. Ruth’s work significantly advanced Artifort’s laudable reputation, specifically through his designs for chairs. Thus, this 'Model 105' hairpin chair is a representative example of Ruth’s craftsmanship and talent.
This chair is full of exceptional features and details that make it a unique example of the creative overflow that defined mid-century modernism in The Netherlands and the rest of Europe. The flowing structure displays beautifully curved lines and rounded edges, ensuring extreme comfort and emphasizing its ergonomic design. The round edges of the upholstered body create a nice balance with the hairpin legs. As with most armchairs, this model is also built in a permanently reclined position, another lovely feature. The armrests are formed atop the wooden legs of the chair effortlessly, without any visible joinery as if just emerging from the wood naturally. The light colour of the textured upholstery in combination with the richly coloured, stained wood frame create warm elegance, perfect to bring a modern touch to any space. The duality of the two materials creates a flowing, self-supporting and enticingly functional design. The combination of solid wood and high-quality upholstery is traditional in mid-century design for a good reason, showcased with the simple elegance of this chair.
From every single angle this chair offers stunning lines and rich texture, and is a representative example of Ruth’s craftsmanship and talent
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood. The chair has 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:
31.10 in W x 35.43 in D x 35.83 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 19.69 in; Arm height 19.69 in
79 cm W x 90 cm D x 91 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 50 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The Italian architect, painter and furniture designer, Guglielmo Ulrich, descended from a noble family with Danish origins. He quickly became a very influential figure in modern Italian design and his models are real delicacies today.
As this pair of 1950s lounge chairs show, Ulrich’s work is elegant and rich in detail. Although his work does not quite conform with the strict norms of simplicity of the time, it fits the prevalent aesthetics of Modernism. In the case of these chairs, the fully upholstered bodies show the general mid-century modern characteristics with an ergonomic and functional design. The seats are slightly raised, and the backs tilted, creating an angle that supports the sitter and the lounging experience. The wooden arms transcending to form the back legs however, truly stand out. The sharp curvature of the armrests and front legs define the look and create an interesting effect, as if the upholstered seats and backs were connected to them without joinery. The carved, dark wood and soft upholstery make them even more pronounced. There are more, subtler features to these chairs, including the wider armrests and the curved backrests, both in service of comfortable lounging. Thanks to the quality of his furnishings, that Ulrich designed and made personally, he became the trusted architects of many upper-class Milanese families. He participates in the furnishing of the most prestigious Italian ships: Cristoforo Colombo, Raffaello, etc.
“A nobleman of yesteryear, with sudden jokes and twists, such as a pipe with an egg in his mouth and a very concrete sense of doing” is how he was often described. This pair of chairs is much like this description with a playful, elegant design completed by quality materials and craftsmanship.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has 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:
24.4 in W x 31.69 in D x 31.49 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 23.42 in
62 cm W x 80.5 cm D x 80 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 59.5 cm
About the designer:
Guglielmo Ulrich (born 1904, Milan–died 1977) was an Italian architect, furniture designer, and painter. He was born to a notable family of Danish origin. In 1924, Ulrich enrolled in the Scuola Speciale di Architettura at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera. He finished his studies at Politecnico di Milano in 1927 and soon became a very influential figure in modern Italian design.
In 1930, along with Scaglia and Wild, Guglielmo Ulrich founded and became head designer of home furnishing company Arca (Arredamento casa, or Home Furnishing), a company engaged in the creation of high-quality furnishing accessories characterized by craftsmanship and the use of premium materials. In the 1950s, he participated in several editions of the Triennale di Milano and concentrated on designing buildings, offices, and retail shops throughout Italy.
Most of Ulrich’s furniture designs from this era, and especially his chairs and chaise lounges, resemble simplified and streamlined design versions of late 19th century pieces and do not necessarily conform to modern designs prevalent in Northern Europe and the U.S. in the 1950s. In the 1960s, Ulrich focused his work toward industrial design and was able to create original and impactful objects. His talent was rewarded on many occasions. In 1961, he won the Fiera di Trieste award for his Trieste chair, produced by furniture maker Saffa.
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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
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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur
Italian Modern furniture is defined by unique design, precise execution and a strong relationship with Italy’s tradition of craftsmanship. This pair of “Bergamo” lounge chairs with matching ottomans attributed to Paolo Buffa is a testament to the distinctive character of mid-century modernism in Italy. Buffa’s design language remains coherent with contemporary developments while retaining a clear connection to traditional furniture making, combining measured proportions, refined decorative details and carefully worked wooden structures.
This pair is focused on elegant proportions, balanced compositions and a rich interplay between geometric and flowing lines. The solid wooden frames are shaped with curved upper edges, slender tapered legs and open sides. The front legs rise effortlessly to form the sweeping armrests, creating a continuous line around the upholstered seats. Two crosses on each side introduce a sharper geometric rhythm, while the backs are formed from a sequence of slender vertical and diagonal wooden elements that give the chairs a striking open appearance both when viewed from behind and from the side. Thick upholstered seat cushions are paired with distinctive round back pillows, leaving much of the wooden back structure visible and enhancing the airy character of the design. The warm, light fabric contrasts with the darker wood and softens the architectural quality of the frames. Each chair is accompanied by a matching ottoman, constructed with the same tapered legs, shaped wooden frame and generously upholstered cushion. Placed together, the ottomans extend the composition of the chairs and reinforce the dialogue between solid upholstery and finely worked wood. The crossed panels, curved armrests, slender back elements and rounded cushions gives the set a dynamic appearance while retaining the elegance inherent in Buffa’s work.
Paolo Buffa was highly active within the Milanese design scene, where traditional craftsmanship and modern ideas were continually brought into dialogue. The “Bergamo” chairs capture that combination particularly well, and the presence of their matching ottomans makes the pair especially complete, creating two inviting lounge settings with a strong decorative presence from every angle.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The set has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items have marks, scratches, dents and discolouration. The chair and ottoman have been reupholstered recently in premium lambswool. 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:
Chair
25.59 in W x 33.66 in D x 31.10 in H; Seat height 16.73 in; Seat depth 18.11 in; Arm height 22.83 in
65 cm W x 85.5 cm D x 79 cm H; Seat height 42.5 cm; Seat depth 46 cm; Arm height 58 cm
Footstool
20.66 in W x 16.92 in D x 16.53 in H
52.5 cm W x 43 cm D x 42 cm H
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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
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Marco Zanuso, born in 1916, was one of a group of Italian designers from Milan shaping the international idea of "good design" in the postwar years. After graduating from the Politecnico di Milano in 1939 with a degree in architecture, and serving in the Second World War, he opened his own office in 1945 and was a pioneer of the use of modern materials.
Along with other pieces - such as the ‘Lady’ and the ‘Martingala’ chairs designed by Marco Zanuso for Arflex - the ‘Regent’ lounge chair, designed in 1960, embodies the modern characteristics of its era. This model, with its outward pointing armrests and the dynamic lines of the seating, combines modern forms and ideals to obtain a timeless, impressive piece of furniture. The set is upholstered in a lambswool fabric in a pleasant cream colour. The chair is decorated with four tufted buttons, which add an elegant element of visual interest while alluding to the functionality and focus on comfort of the design. The set is completed by a matching footstool, complementing the chair while serving an obvious functional purpose, further enhancing the lounging experience. Both pieces feature wheels for easy movement, allowing them to be flexible additions to creative interiors.
Through its modern look and functional features, this set of Marco Zanuso ‘Regent’ lounge chair is in service of both the experience of the user, as well as the pursuit of a beautifully decorated space. These pieces are a symbol of timeless elegance, artisanal skill, and the enduring allure of modern design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the items may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The chair and footstool have been reupholstered recently in lambswool 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:
Chair
32.68 in W x 37 in D x 33.27 in H; Seat height 16.93 in; Seat depth 19.69 in; Arm height 19.69 in
83 cm W x 94 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 43 cm; Seat depth 50 cm; Arm height 50 cm
Footstool
22.44 in W x 23.03 in D x 16.14 in H
57 cm W x 58.5 cm D x 41 cm H
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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. The warm-toned wood highlights the warm patina that has developed over decades.
Crafted during a time when movements like Modernism were reshaping design worldwide, this 20th-century armchair reflect a transitional style rooted in both simplicity and elegance. This era emphasizes clean lines, unique shapes, and high-quality craftsmanship to achieve timeless pieces like this one. 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 most eye-catching element of this model is the wingbacked backrest. The wingback style is one of the most recognisable forms in European furniture, with a history dating back to seventeenth-century England. Its characteristic high back and projecting side wings were originally developed to shelter the sitter from drafts and retain warmth near a fireplace. It gives the upper section an enveloping quality. 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.
The warm brown tone makes the design feel inviting, while the strong silhouette allows it to stand confidently in a space. Positioned beside a fireplace, in a reading corner or alongside a floor lamp, this chair creates an intimate place to sit while bringing the unmistakable tradition into the twentieth century.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. The wicker has some tears. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item has some dents, scratches, and discolouration.
Dimensions:
33.66 in W x 32.28 in D x 47.24 in H; Seat height 16.33 in; Seat depth 19.88 in; Arm height
85.5 cm W x 82 cm D x 120 cm H; Seat height 41.5 cm; Seat depth 50.5 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 5,000 - 7,500 usd / eur
The mid 1950s in Italy were marked by a new softness in modern furniture. Designers began shifting away from the strict rationalism of the postwar years and toward interiors shaped through comfort and tactility. Lenzi worked inside that transition. Their production merged clarity of proportion with upholstered volume. The result was a kind of modernism that felt warm, human, and atmospheric rather than merely functional.
This armchair features a curved back, low arms, and deep seat all flowing into one continuous shape, to create a soft envelope around the sitter. Upholstered in a rich olive green textile with a subtle pile, the chair gains depth through texture rather than pattern. The fabric reads almost like moss, perfectly natural and comforting. The seat is anchored by four slender brass legs that angle outward with quiet poise. Their gleam has just enough presence to complement the body above without drawing excess attention to themselves. The upper part of the chairs feels steady and welcoming, while the slender metal below introduces air and lightness. Every contour and proportion has been judged toward an overall calm. This chair is the perfect example of great attention to detail mixed with skilled cabinetmaking.
This model speaks to a moment when Italian modernism was not purely decorative, nor austere, but refined in its ability to create atmosphere. They remain compelling examples of Lenzi's charming yet timeless design approach.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has recently been reconditioned. Minor marks on the brass. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some scratches and discolouration. The chair has been reupholstered recently 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:
29.92 in W x 26.77 in D x 24.4 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 23.62 in; Arm height 21.25 in
76 cm W x 68 cm D x 62 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 60 cm; Arm height 54 cm