Illum Wikkelsø Model V11 Leather Sofa for Holger Christiansen, Denmark 1960s




























Illum Wikkelsø Model V11 Leather Sofa for Holger Christiansen, Denmark 1960s
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This freestanding sofa, better known as “Model V11” is considered among the masterpiece designs of Illum Wikkelsø. The Danish designer created the “V11” series in 1965 whilst working with master cabinetmaker Holger Christiansen in Aarhus.
Wikkelsø’s three-seater sofa combines a rectangular shape and long lines with rounded out edges. The low back and deep seat give the sofa a modern and elegant look. The solid wood legs are cone-shaped and tapered with straight lines. This contrasts nicely to the otherwise less strict lines that characterize the design. The three loose seat cushions add a lot of depth to the look and highlight the leather’s unique texture and patine, while also guaranteeing sitting comfort. Along with the cushions, the sides, back- and armrests are upholstered in a brown-green leather with beautiful patina.
The sofa was manufactured by Danish manufacturer Holger Christiansen Møbelfabrik in Aarhus in the 1960s. The leather is in a desirable vintage condition. This model has a good sense of balance and a classic look, which makes it a timeless design.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. This sofa comes with its original leather or has been reupholstered by a previous owner. 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:
85.03 in W x 31.29 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 16.53 in; Arm height 20.86 in
216 cm W x 79.5 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 42 cm; Arm height 53 cm
Literature:
300 Danske Designmøbler By Per H. Hansen and Klaus Petersen. 2015. Unpaginated.
About the designer:
Kristian Illum Wikkelsø (1919-1999), by his full name, is best known for his seating designs. Like most Danish designers at the time, Wikkelsø trained as a carpenter until 1938 and then followed in the footsteps of many of his later colleagues and continued his studies at the Copenhagen School of Arts and Crafts, graduating in 1941.
In 1944, Wikkelsø moved to Århus to work as an interior designer He was then employed at the carpentry master and architect Jacob Kjær's drawing room and then at Peter Hvidt & Orla Mølgaard Nielsen’s architectural firm, where he worked until 1954. The same year, Illum Wikkelsø began designing his own furniture and a few years later, he established his own workshop. A number of Danish manufacturers produced Wikkelsø’s designs, such as C.F. Christensen, Holger Christiansen and Søren Willadsen.
Like many of his Danish contemporaries, including Arne Jacobsen, Finn Juhl, and Hans Wegner, Wikkelsø’s designs emphasize formal simplicity and biomorphic silhouettes. Wikkelsø’s background in cabinetry engendered in him a profound understanding of materials and an excellent attention to detail. Working with teak and rosewood, he captured delicately sculptural forms. Wikkelsø believed that furniture should be built to last while cradling the body and pleasing the eye.
Though little biographical information survives, the quality of Illum Wikkelsø’s designs affirms his status as an active proponent of Scandinavian modernism in the post-war era. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Throughout the 20th century, Italian design managed to distinguish itself. The 1960s was a boom time in Italy especially, a decade of mass production and innovation that signaled the end of the post-war rebuilding programme. Still, one off designs and the overflow of creativity were just as present, giving birth to outstanding pieces such as this modular “Superonda” sofa.
The “Superonda” sofa, designed in 1967 by the radical Florentine design collective Archizoom Associati, and produced for Poltronova, is a pioneering piece that challenged the conventions of traditional furniture design. The Superonda blurs the line between object and artwork, inviting interaction rather than passive use. It can serve as a sofa, a bed, or a chaise, making it as versatile as it is visually striking. Composed of two interlocking, elements, the Superonda departs from the conventional frames, legs, and backs, instead offering a sculptural, modular form that can be arranged in multiple ways. Its bold, wave-like silhouette reflects the playfulness of the Italian Radical Design movement, a rebellion against bourgeois taste and rigid functionalism.
Produced by Poltronova, a manufacturer known for championing avant-garde Italian design, the Superonda remains an unforgettable piece in design history. Its enduring relevance lies in its conceptual boldness, embodying the ideals of a generation that sought to redefine the relationship between people and their environments. Today, the Superonda stands not only as a collectible design icon but as a symbol of radical creativity and the power of design to question societal norms.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa 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:
94.88 in W x 44.88 in D x 15.74 in H
241 cm W x 114 cm D X 40 cm H
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
Edward Wormley took the best elements from classical, historical Scandinavian and other European furniture design and translated them into a Modern vernacular. The result was furniture like this exceptional “New York” sofa - sophisticated, stylish, understated and exceptionally well-made.
Officially known as model “5316”, this sofa was originally designed for the American furniture company, Dunbar in the 1950s. This sofa version of “5316”, was made on license in Sweden by Ljungs Industrier/ DUX. Wormley's USA-based company, Dunbar, collaborated with the Swedish furniture manufacturer DUX, who presented a series of what they called "Bra Bohag", where this version was marketed as "New York" in the most expensive price category. The design stands as a timeless example of the enduring appeal of modernist aesthetics in the world of furniture design. This iconic model epitomizes the clean lines, functionality, and understated elegance that define the modernist movement. The solid wood frame holds the upholstered body effortlessly with an airy arrangement that lets the individual parts all stand out. This is mostly the result of the straight lines with rounded edges, a harmonious blend of form and function. While the design is shorn of decorative elements, the screws, the upholstery and the tufted buttons all serve as ornamentation as well. It is specifically this ability that Wormley's genius lies in: to seamlessly marry the practical with the aesthetically pleasing. The frame's precise angles and proportions give the sofa a sense of balance and proportion that is both pleasing to the eye and comfortable to the body.
The sofa's clean, straight lines and unadorned surfaces exemplify the modernist principle of minimalism, stripping away unnecessary ornamentation in favour of pure, functional design. This “New York” sofa is truly a masterpiece of modernist design, a real statement piece.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium linen 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:
90.15 in W x 31.49 in D x 30.51 in H; Seat height 18.05 in; Arm height 25.19 in
229 cm W x 80 cm D x 77.5 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Arm height 64 cm
Literature:
Henschen & Blomberg (ed), "Svenskt Möbellexikon", Förlagshuset Nordens Malmö 1961, II, p 747.
Berglund & Engdahl, "Möbelråd", Uppsala, 1961, p 71 (wrongly attributed to Alf Svensson)
About the designer:
Edward J Wormley (December 31, 1907 – November 3, 1995) was an American designer of modern furniture. In 1926, he briefly studied at the Art Institute of Chicago. Due to financial restrictions, he began work as an interior designer for Marshall Fields & Company department store. During the Depression, Wormley was introduced to the president of Dunbar Furniture Company of Berne, Indiana, who hired him to upgrade their product line.
Dunbar made a good choice, as he met immediate success with Wormley's work. In 1944 the company decided to focus strictly on Modern lines, and Edward Wormley rose to the task, incorporating European and Scandinavian innovations.
His eye for quality and the exacting craftsmanship at Dunbar made for furniture that was elegant, understated and exceptionally well-made. Wormley was never really at the forefront of Modern design. Instead, he took the best elements from classical, historical design and translated them into Modern vernacular. The result was furniture that was sophisticated, yet mainstream and very successful.
Wormley's inclusion in the Good Design Exhibitions staged by the Museum of Modern Art and the Merchandise Mart between 1950 and 1955 elevated him to a respected place alongside more cutting edge designers like Bertoia, Nelson and Eames. In 1938 MoMA launched an exhibit they called Useful Objects, in which they showcased “design intended for present-day life, in regard to usefulness, to production methods and materials and to the progressive taste of the day.”
In the wake of America’s postwar prosperity, the exhibit was later renamed Good Design and largely focused on modern furnishings. The exhibit reopened in 1950 under the name Good Design with three of Edward Wormley’s works on display: an adjustable upholstered wood armchair, a “Short John” coffee table with laminated wood legs, and a “Repartee” gray carpet.
Wormley’s inclusion in the exhibit proved that traditional forms still had a place in the modern design movement. During the exhibit’s run thirty Wormley pieces were awarded Good Design designation, cementing him as a peer among other high-profile designers of the era. Wormley understood the essential elements of Modernism but never limited himself to one ideology. His furniture represented a convergence of historical design and 20th century innovation that greatly appeals to today's collectors.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This elegant three-seater sofa is a quintessential example of mid-century Italian design. Visually, it represents modernism by rejecting the common design choices of the past, such as heavy ornamentation and the prioritisation of form over function.
The design elements of this sofa - from the curved lines, to the dark wood and luxurious upholstery - not only create an intimate gathering place, but also define the look of a room whilst keeping the warmth and cosiness that is often associated with mid-century design. The piece aims to maximise comfort while putting an emphasis on elegance and refinement. With its high winged-backrest the sofa combines both form and function. Originally intended to shield the sitters from drafts, the wingback design also contributes to the stately silhouette. The understated tone of the upholstery allows the sculptural lines of the sofa to stand out, while still offering a neutral look that will integrate seamlessly into both contemporary and vintage interiors. The seat cushion is generously padded, providing a balance of comfort and support. Further adding to the stability are the tapered wooden legs that the piece rests on, the dark tone of the wood subtly elevates the design and reflects the minimalist aesthetic of the era. Free from unnecessary decoration, the aesthetic of this sofa is sleek, elegant, and modern. With its interesting shape, it is perfect to break the rigour of any space, keeping an elegant appearance elevated by the light upholstery.
Though many mid-century Italian designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today making outstanding Italian pieces like this sofa highly sought after.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa 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:
77.55 in W x 36.22 in D x 36.41 in H; Seat height 20.07 in; Seat depth 20.66 in; Arm height 22.44 in
197 cm W x 92 cm D x 92.5 cm H; Seat height 51 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm; Arm height 57 cm
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The “Camaleonda” (Italian word play combining the words for ‘chameleon’ and ‘wave’) sofa is Mario Bellini’s contemporary classic. The playful, modular design offers endless options for the user, which also inspired the model’s name. Camaleonda has passed through five decades of design history as a true icon.
The elements that made this sofa a contemporary classic are the individual modules, their original cutting patterns and the polyurethane padding that forms the characteristic capitonné (a style of upholstery in which the material is drawn in at intervals) design. The four separate segments of this “Camaleonda” were manufactured with the innovative system of cables, hooks, and rings created by Bellini in 1970, which defines the characteristic look and modularity. The fundamental characteristic of Camaleonda is specifically this unlimited modularity, a geometric pattern that allows each element to become an enormous pixel through which to define your home environment. The four modules’ versatility and the attached tie-rods and rings make it possible to create custom forms. Furthermore, the modules can be unhooked and recombined at will, allowing the sofa to adapt to an evolving taste and needs. A concept which is dear to Mario Bellini: “Of all the objects I have designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom. There are infinite numbers of possible configurations.”
The modules of this sofa defined the aesthetics of an entire era of interior design, and are constantly featured in most international design. Considering the inherently modern and innovative design, this shall comes as no surprise.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The four modules are upholstered in a brown velour 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:
Large segments:
147.63 in W x 37.79 in D x 26.37 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Arm height 19.68 in
375 cm W x 96 cm D x 67 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Arm height 50 cm
Literature:
Domus n. 523, giugno 1973, pubblicità; G. Gramigna, Repertorio del design italiano 1950 - 1980, Milano 1985, p. 341.
About the designer:
Mario Bellini (born February 1, 1935, Milan) is an internationally renowned Italian architect and designer. He received the Golden Compass Award eight times and the Medaglia d’Oro, that was conferred on him by the President of the Italian Republic. The MoMA in New York already dedicated a personal retrospective exhibition to him in 1987. At the time the museum already included 25 of his works in its permanent collection, including a remarkable set of Olivetti machines as well as the furniture for B&B and Cassina.
He graduated from the Milan Polytechnic - Faculty of Architecture in 1959 and began working as an architect himself in the early 1960s. Like many other Italian architects, his activities range from architecture and urban planning to product and furniture design.
His career as a product and furniture designer began in 1963, and from 1963 to 1991 he was chief design consultant for Olivetti. For many years he designed furnishing products and systems for B&B Italia and Cassina, TV sets for Brionvega, and hi-fi systems, headphones and electric organs for Yamaha. Bellini was also the editor of Domus magazine between 1985 and 1991.
Since the 1980s, Bellini has been dedicating himself to architecture almost exclusively, designing a wide range of buildings all around the world, including the Portello Trade Fair district in Milan, the Tokyo Design Centre in Japan, the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, the Deutsche Bank Headquarters in Frankfurt, and the Department of Islamic Art at the Louvre in Paris to just name a few. In 2015 the Milan Triennale awarded him the Gold Medal for his career in architecture and in 2017 dedicated a retrospective exhibition to him. Contemporary Italian design has been synonymous with Mario Bellini’s name ever since the 1960s. ~H.
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The iconic “Soriana” three-seater sofa was designed by the Italian designer duo, Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1969. Besides its innovative manufacturing, visually,Soriana brings sophisticated and leisurely comfort to any home.
This post-modern sofa was manufactured by Cassina as part of the eponymous line that reached the coveted ‘iconic’ title soon after its launch. The award-winning design features three front metal clamps by which all soft curves and loose leather upholstery are held together, a particularly original detail that creates a sense of barely contained softness. The Soriana collection was meant to express beauty and comfort by using a whole bundle of fabric held by chrome-plated steel clamps. The defining upholstered body features tufted buttons all over it, which visually sections the sofa, while also adding depth to accentuate the softness. The interesting pairing of the metal clamps with the luxurious dark leather creates the nowadays especially coveted post-modern look. For all its casual overtures, this sofa model remains a statement piece — an icon of contemporary design
The “Soriana Chair” was the first piece designed in the collection, and for its design in 1970, it won the Compasso d'Oro, one of the most important design awards of that time. The design has been reissued by Cassina recently, with the aim of recovering and safeguarding the works of Afra and Tobia Scarpa.
Condition:
In very good condition. The sofa is upholstered in premium leather. 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:
96.06 in W x 35.43 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat Height 21.65 in
244 cm W x 90 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 55 cm
Literature:
G. Gramigna, Repertorio del Design Italiano 1950-2000 per l’Arredamento Domestico. Turin: Allemandi 2003, p. 318
G. Bosoni, Made in Cassina. Milan: Skira, 2008, pp. 200-201.
About the designers:
Afra and Tobia Scarpa graduated at the Istituto Universitario di Architettura in Venice and formed one of the most successful and known professional associations. Their works can be found in museums across the USA and Europe such as the MoMA and the Louvre. Their designs like the Soriana sofa exhibit a decidedly modernist aesthetic, prioritizing pared-back elegance and comfort. At the same time, the Scarpas are admired for the ease with which their designs complement both classical and cutting-edge interiors.
The Soriana was created for the Italian manufacturing company Cassina, which is often credited with introducing industrial design to Italy and has built an international reputation for collaborating with some of the world’s most respected designers, including Afra and Tobia Scarpa.
The husband-and-wife duo’s products played an important role in the history of Italian Design and are thriving in the Mid-Century market. The Soriana sofa is a collectors’ piece and part of the history of Italian design destined to increase in value with the time. A piece of true Italian Modernism. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Carl Malmsten devoted his life to the renewal of Swedish craftsmanship, inspired to create furniture endowed with a creative simplicity, with functionality in mind and a high technical quality. His talent to innovate and produce unique pieces is showcased in his design of the “Hemmakväll” sofa.
From 1956 onward, O.H. Sjögren's Upholstery Workshop in Tranås became one of Carl Malmsten’s key production hubs that met all of the quality standards required. Their collaboration was followed by his exhibition at the Röhsska Museum of Design and Craft in Gothenburg where he showcased, for the first time, furniture designed for serial production. One of these series was dedicated to the family home, and included the “Hemmakväll” sofa (other items in the same series are also recognisable Malmsten pieces, such as “Farmor” and “Lillasyter”). This series inspired by familiar comforts evokes a special feeling or mood, which is also reflected in how he named his designs. “Hemmakväll” translates to “Home Evening”, evoking cosiness, joy and expressing the act of a family gathering. The design of this sofa aims to maximise comfort and function, while simultaneously putting an emphasis on elegance and refinement. This is most visible in the round, welcoming body and the eye-catching parallel lines of tufted buttons, all enhanced by the luxurious fabric of the sofa. The complementary geometrical pillows are accent pieces that add visual interest through a variation of textures, colours, and shapes. The sofa’s short, pine wood legs add a modern and organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the piece.
Carl Malmsten was - and still is - one of the most famous furniture designers in Sweden, who was also active in the cultural and political sphere of the country. He had a lasting influence on Swedish and contemporary furniture design, and was known for his devotion to ‘slöjd’ (traditional Swedish craftsmanship), which is visible in every one of his models. With this sofa, the ‘slöjd’ is combined with modern elements and luxurious upholstery to create stylish pieces with longevity for generations to come.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The pillows are newly produced. The sofa 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:
80.3 in W x 33.1 in D x 33.3 in H; Seat height 16.1 in; Seat depth 20.9 in; Arm height 24.4 in
204 cm W x 84 cm D x 84.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 53 cm; Arm height 62 cm
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
The term “Swedish Modern” was quickly established as a reinterpretation of the Modern style during the 1940s, where functionalism was replaced by a freer and more artistic ideal. Swedish Modern furniture is popular because it speaks to both our inclination towards uncluttered, tidy spaces and our desire to reside in inviting and comfortable settings.
There is a great balance in the execution of this sofa, which is achieved through the clever use of the undulating rounded edges of the upholstered body and the detail of the divot design on the front legs. The curving back and armrests are welcoming, and unmistakable of the era’s design inclinations, particularly in Sweden. The rich texture of the cozy upholstery gives the sofa a modern edge while also enhancing the generous size of the seat and back, creating a luxurious look and feel..
The short, decorated wooden legs add a modern and attractive touch, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the sofa. The masterful sense of proportions, the curved back and the soft seat cushion guarantee comfort and functionality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa 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:
74.80 in W x 37.79 in D x 31.88 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 23.62 in
190 cm W x 96 cm D x 81 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 60 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
The mid-20th century marked a transformative period in interior design and architecture, with the rise of movements such as Scandinavian modernism forever influencing design history. This movement, rooted in minimalism and functionality, focused on creating designs that were both beautiful and practical. Influenced by a desire to merge art with everyday life, Scandinavian designers embraced clean lines, organic forms, and a deep respect for craftsmanship.
One prime example of this ethos is this 1940s sofa, which captures the essence of Swedish modernism with its graceful, curving form and understated elegance. The gently sloped backrest and arms create an inviting, soft silhouette, emphasizing comfort without compromising on style. The upholstery, in a neutral white tone, not only adds a sense of lightness to the design but also highlights the clean, minimalist lines of the piece. The soft texture of the fabric contributes to the comfort of the sofa, making it as functional as it is visually appealing. Defining the piece is the stained oak frame, which introduces warmth and a natural quality to the look. The oak’s rich finish contrasts beautifully with the light upholstery, adding depth and sophistication. The oak overlays flow along the armrests, creating a striking visual element that sets the sofa apart. The tapered legs further enhance the sofa’s elegant form, giving it a lightweight appearance that is balanced by the sturdy body.
The combination of natural materials, clean lines, and functional beauty exemplified by this piece is a testament to the lasting appeal of Scandinavian modernism. The fusion of beauty and practicality ensures that this piece remains relevant for modern living, offering both style and comfort in equal measure.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa 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:
64.56 in W x 35.82 in D x 32.28 in H; Seat height 17.32 in; Seat depth 18.89 cm; Arm height 25.19 in
164 cm W x 91 cm D x 82 cm H; Seat height 44 cm; Seat depth 48 cm; Arm height 64 cm
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Price category: 2,500 - 5,000 usd / eur
Swedish design is characterised by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. The mastery of Swedish designer and architect, Bertil Fridhagen lies in creating a model that is, as its name suggests, aristocratic and minimal at the same time. With a lack of a corresponding Swedish name, 'mid-century modern' describes the attributes that were popular during the middle of the 20th century.
This sofa follows the ideals of mid-century Sweden in a very visible way: its grounded silhouette and simple form, and the superficially set tufted buttons in long rows soften the look. This three-seater sofa, which is part of Fridhagen’s “Aristokrat” line, combines elements of classical and modern design with utmost quality. The solid wood beautifully frames the upholstered body, outlining the welcoming silhouette of the sofa. The frame has a stunning curvaceous design, with an outward-curving end that breaks the otherwise square shape. The embracing body’s curve enhances the beautiful original chenille upholstery with small deep-stitched buttons. Swedish design prefers colours rooted in nature, muted tones that aren’t screaming about their presence, but still attract the eye naturally. The sofa’s yellow chenille upholstery is a wonderful example of this ideal. The cushions are removable and reversible, adding to the comfort of the sitter.
Bröderna Andersson, the sofa’s manufacturer is first and foremost characterised by quality, Småland craftsmanship and professional pride. At Bröderna Andersson's, the entire production chain was under one roof. From the choice of wood species to the production of the frames, and careful attention so that the last seam is in place, quality is Bröderna Andersson’s word of honour.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
75.59 in W x 32.48 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 19.48 in
192 cm W x 82.5 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 49.5 cm
About the Designer:
Bertil August Julius Fridhagen was born on February 16 in1905 in Norra Sandsjö parish, Jönköping county, and was a renowned Swedish architect and furniture designer.
Bertil Fridhagen grew up in Bodafors. His father was a carpenter and he also started as a carpenter at AB Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he became the student of the architect Carl Erik Ekholm. Later, he decided to further his education at Konstfack in Stockholm. In a reversed way, Fridhagen started out gaining experience in cabinetry before completing his formal education in architecture.
He returned to Bodafors in 1937, where at first, he was employed at Sandsjö Möbelfabrik (1937-39) and then became chief architect at Svenska Möbelfabrikerna in Bodafors, where he succeeded his teacher, Ekholm. He became an important figure for the success of Svenska Möbelfabrikerna and in 1964 Bertil Fridhagen's models accounted for two thirds of home furniture production, which was an extreme success. For comparison, the much more well-known designer, Carl Malmsten's models accounted for a quarter. Bertil Fridhagen's biggest sales success was the combination series “Variett”.
Fridhagen won numerous prizes at various design competitions, including in Denmark in 1954, the California State Fair in Sacramento with the Librettserien in 1956, in Italy in 1966, 1968 and 1970 and in Tennessee in 1972. He also designed buildings, but above all interiors, he is remembered for the Bodafors church. The designer is remembered for his versatile models which are beautiful examples of Swedish design ideals.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Sofas in general are considered statement pieces in any space. Scandinavian sofas, with their generous bodies, materials of the highest quality are the result of master cabinetmakers’ craftsmanship. The design of this sofa directs the eyes to the voluptuous, uniquely upholstered body, the result of the exquisite work of its maker.
Visually, this sofa represents modernism by rejecting the common design choices of styles from the past, such as heavy ornamentation and the prioritisation of form over function. The sofa’s upholstery stands out, adding to the modern elegance and cosiness of this piece. The design elements of this sofa - from the curved lines, to the dark wood and luxurious upholstery not only create an intimate gathering place, but also define the look of a room whilst maintaining the warmth and cosiness that is often associated with mid-century design. Its genius lies in the simplicity of its lines, such as with the slightly curved back which continues seamlessly down to form the curved armrests. The four solid wood legs add an organic feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile. The pairs of tapered legs assure great structural stability, while also enhancing the width of the sofa visually. This sofa is ideal for any space, as it utilizes its size in a smart and stylish manner. The legs’ wooden tones further allow the upholstery to shine through, and even represent a focal point of the piece.
This beautiful three-seater sofa speaks to the elegance and craftsmanship synonymous with the mid-century modern era. Its sleek silhouette, combined with the bold upholstery, ensures that it stands out in any room, creating a striking contrast against neutral backgrounds or complementing vibrant, eclectic decor. Not only this, but the use of the highest quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures the longevity of the piece.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in 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:
68.11 in W x 37.8 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 18.5 in; Seat depth 21.25 in; Arm height 24 in
173 cm W x 96 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 47 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
Designed in the early phase of what we know today as mid-century modern, this charming sofa is a unique example of how traditional Swedish craftsmanship was brought into modernism. A functional anchor piece is all that is needed to introduce mid-century modern flair to any interior.
The Swedish perspective on cabinetmaking is exceptional, which is why the country’s cabinetmakers’ craft remains world-famous. As an essentially Swedish Modern piece, this sofa is built around the core characteristics of the style: gently rounded edges, solid wooden legs, and a generous fully upholstered body. Accordingly, this sofa has a very precise, defined outline, accentuated by the visually sectioned back. There is a great balance in the design, which is achieved through the clever use of the straight and rounded edges of the upholstered body and the short wooden legs. The curving back and armrests are welcoming, and the rich texture of the upholstery gives the sofa a modern edge, while also enhancing the generous size of the seat and back. There is something more inviting about rounded shapes, which is true for the legs as well. The splayed, dark-stained wood legs further add to the modern, cosy feel, balancing out the voluptuous profile of the sofa. In combination with the unadorned styles of mid-century design, this sofa brings together the best attributes of the era. The masterful sense of proportion guarantees functionality and comfort.
Swedish master cabinetmakers have been creating products that last for a lifetime and become heirlooms. Crafted with precision from solid wood, finished with attention to detail and care for the aesthetic dimension, this sofa stands the test of time thanks to both its visual and material quality.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa is upholstered 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:
65.75 in W x 32.67 in D x 28.15 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 19.09 in; Arm height 25.59 in
167 cm W x 83 cm D x 71.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 48.5 cm; Arm height 65 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This rare sofa model was designed by Ingvar Stockum in 1965 for Futura Möbler, but was only in production for two years before it was discontinued as a result of high production costs. The design embodies the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic characteristic of the mid-century era, while also incorporating elements that ensure both comfort and style. Its silhouette is sleek and sophisticated, with a low profile that exudes a contemporary feel.
The designer’s fine sense of proportion, line tension and balance between the surfaces, and how skillfully he incorporated the heritage of traditional design, is evident in this sofa. The frame is constructed from wood, which offers durability and stability, while the generous cushioning ensures a comfortable seating experience. Throughout the 20th century, solid wood had been the most important furniture material in Europe. This is especially true for the mid-century, during which natural wood was a staple material to enhance both the structural and visual aspect of furniture, as is the case with this three-seater sofa. The striped upholstery complements the minimalist design and allows the sofa to blend seamlessly into various interior settings. The attention to detail in Stockum's design is evident in the well-proportioned structure and thoughtful use of materials. This piece not only reflects the craftsmanship and design ethos of the 1960s Scandinavian movement, but also serves as a timeless addition to any modern living space, combining form and function with enduring style.
Design-wise, this sofa is in the vein of Scandinavian modernism, with simplicity and functionality, while also showcasing the subtle details and quality mid-century design is known and appreciated for.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa 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:
78.74 in W x 31.30 in D x 29.13 in H; Seat height 16.14 cm; Seat depth 25.20 in; Arm height 23.23 in
200 cm W x 79.5 cm D x 74 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 64 cm; Arm height 59 cm