Adrian Pearsall "2315-C" Lounge Chairs for Craft Associates, USA 1960s

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Price range 500-1500 EUR/USD

associate Danish furniture design with the country’s golden age, the mid-twentieth century. This simple, yet beautifully designed and executed side table shows why this is. This mid-century modern table combines aesthetics with modern functionality in line with the country’s design philosophy.

The tabletop is triangular, resembling a guitar pick, which establishes the stylish look. The top is supported by three, slightly tapered legs that enhance its look. There is a clear concern for materiality melded with a desire for a Shaker-like clarity. Instead of ornamentation, the designer, and manufacturer emphasized the natural pattern of the material. Danish modern – despite its name – in many ways transcends the word ‘modern’. It is a style that can be incorporated successfully into contemporary and traditional interiors alike, lending itself to a timeless and universal appeal. Much of the country’s furniture, like this table, is rooted in the historical development of form, and is thus able to transcend time, incorporating seamlessly into today’s interiors.

As seen in the photos with our VEB Lechtenbau table lamp, this table is ideal to complement many styles by adding organic charm to industrial materials such as metal. The contrast is appealing while the functionality of the table is utilized. The sizable veneered tabletop and the conical tripod legs are perfect to showcase anything that is placed on it.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood.

Dimensions:

27.16 in. W x 27.95 in H x 25.19 in H

69 cm W x 71 cm D x 64 cm H

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Price range 2500-5000 EUR/USD

The Finnish interior designer, Antti Nurmesniemi (1927-2003) is considered one of the pioneers of the Finnish design industry. Nurmesniemi's present "960 TUOLI" chaise lounge, which he designed for Cassina in 1968, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Finnish design during the second half of the 20th century.

Nurmesniemi, a prominent figure in the Finnish design scene, was known for his modernist approach and innovative creations that seamlessly blended form and function. At the heart of the design of this  "960 Tuoli" model is its striking modernist aesthetic, a hallmark of the era. The chaise lounge reflects the clean lines and geometric shapes characteristic of the modernist movement. Nurmesniemi's vision was to create a piece that would not only provide comfort but would  also serve as a sculptural element within a space. The chair's minimalist aesthetic is epitomized by the sleek chrome-plated steel frame that serves as both the foundation and as the visual focal point. The sculptural nature of the chrome-plated steel frame is a nod to the functionality principle inherent in Finnish design. Each curve and angle is purposefully crafted, showcasing the designer's commitment to form meeting function. The frame not only provides structural stability but also contributes to the overall visual appeal of the model, creating an elegant and timeless piece. Cassina, the renowned Italian furniture manufacturer, collaborated with Nurmesniemi to bring his vision to life. This collaboration was emblematic of the global recognition that Finnish design was gaining during the second half of the  20th century. Cassina's commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design aligned seamlessly with Nurmesniemi's ethos, resulting in a piece that transcended national boundaries and became a symbol of international design excellence. The "960 Tuoli" chaise lounge is also distinguished by its vibrant fabric upholstery, a characteristic feature in many Finnish pieces of the time. The bold use of color against the steel reflects the Nordic sensibility of incorporating nature-inspired elements into design. This vivid red fabric upholstery not only adds a touch of warmth to the modernist structure but also serves as a nod to Finland's rich cultural heritage.

Antti Nurmesniemi's present "960 Tuoli" chaise lounge encapsulates the essence of Finnish design of the later 20th century. Its modernist aesthetics, sculptural chrome-plated steel frame, and vibrant upholstery are exemplary of the fusion of form and function that defines both Nurmesniemi's work and the broader landscape of Finnish design. The collaboration with Cassina further solidifies the global impact of this iconic piece, marking a pivotal moment in the history of 20th-century design.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. There are two glides missing on the frame, therefore the lounge is in a fixed position and cannot be adjusted. minimal rust on the frame at the back, minor stains in some cases. The chair is upholstered in its original red 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:

56.29 in W x 25.98 in D x 30.7 in H

143 cm W, d. 66 cm D x 78 cm H

About the designer:

The Finnish interior designer Antti Nurmesniemi (1927-2003) is considered one of the pioneers of the Finnish design industry. Antti Nurmesniemi studied at the University of Arts and Design Helsinki before entering into an architectural practice from 1951 to 1956. In 1953 he married Vuokko Eskolin-Nurmesniemi, a leading textile designer for Marimekko.

During his career Nurmesniemi created a wide range of products, including pieces of furniture, telephones, kitchenware and even trains. His most famous designs include the sauna stool, which was designed for Helsinki Palace Hotel and has a horseshoe shape, the enameled coffee pot for Wärtsilä, which represents a typical product of Finnish Modernism with its industrial and colourful look, and the Triennale chair, which was awarded a Gold Medal at the Milan Triennale in 1960.

Antti Nurmesniemi designed also furniture for Artek and tableware for Arabia. He is represented in numerous museums worldwide. During his long career as an industrial designer, the designer has received numerous of prizes and honours, including two Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale, the Pro Finlandia medal and the Lunning Prize.

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Price range 2500-5000 EUR/USD

Adrian Pearsall was born in 1925 in Trumansburg, New York. Like many Mid-Century Modern artists of the time, Pearsall was a graduate of architecture school. This background is profoundly evident in this pair of “2315-C” lounge chairs, showing architectural precision and an essentially mid-century modern aesthetic.

This model features a solid walnut construction with sculptural arms, slatted backs and thick seat and back cushions for ultimate comfort. The cushions are newly upholstered in a cream bouclé fabric with the individual hoops of the fabric complementing the beautiful wooden surfaces. The design of this pair is focused on elegant and measured proportions, balanced compositions, and refined décor elements including the exclusive materials. The straight lines of the slat backs and the curving form of the armrests exemplify this balance. The pairing of the beautiful wooden frames with the upholstered seat and back cushions show off both materials’ elegance. Like their international contemporaries, American designers prized the marriage of form and function, seen in the angles of these chairs that allow for the ultimate lounging experience and support for the human body. Adrian Pearsall founded Craft Associates in Pennsylvania in 1952 to manufacture his own designs, including these chairs. By the late 1950s his designs incorporating walnut became hugely popular, a popularity that hasn’t been lost .

The versatile shapes, from the flowing, carved armrests to the slat backs and tapered legs make these chairs stand out. The legs are tapered with the ones in the back slightly bent and splayed for structural support. It is somewhat rare for a fully upholstered body to serve a support role, but here, the wooden frames dominate the design with innovative solutions that are truly attention grabbing.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs’ cushions have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:

25.98 in W x 29.52 in D x 33.85 in H; Seat height 14.17 in

66 cm W x 75 cm D x 86 cm H; Seat height 36 cm

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Price range 500-1500 EUR/USD

This “Model 75” Danish mid-century modern teak coffee table was designed by the Danish designer, Holger Georg Jensen and produced by Kubus. The design is sculpturally distinctive with intertwining legs that interact with each other in an artistic way, dominating the overall impression.

Besides the legs’ structure, the main design element is the teak veneered top with an amazing sunburst design. A sunburst is a design or figure commonly used in architectural ornaments and design patterns; it consists of rays or "beams" radiating out from a central point in the manner of sunbeams. Thanks in great part to an emphasis on wood, this table has avoided associations with cold industrialization and machine aesthetics of the era. European, especially Scandinavian designers’ predilection for curvilinear shapes and certain woods, often teak, is evident in this coffee table’s sinuous circular top and solid wood body. With its distinctive structure, this table epitomizes the era’s designers’ research for new systems of joinery, in which the material and the design would be the lead factors in achieving stability, durability, and of course, an aesthetically pleasing outcome. Holger Georg Jensen (1927 –  2001) was a prominent Danish furniture designer. His most famous design pieces were created in collaboration with the Danish manufacturer, Kubus with impeccable woodworking and joinery.A prime example is this “model 75” sculptural table model with a masterfully constructed teak structure, and joinery  showcasing impeccable craftsmanship and design quality.

The use of the sizeable pieces of teak wood with beautiful grain gives this table a natural, elemental feel. The visible joints on the legs are also wonderful details and very typical for the work of cabinetmakers who gave wooden pieces even more personality.

Condition:I

In great vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some minor scratches and marks on the wood.

Dimensions:

30.31 in ø x 16.53 in H

77 cm ø x 42 cm H

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Price range 250-500 EUR/USD

The now historic story goes:

“About 20 years ago Rolf Fehlbaum, the Chairman of Vitra, called me up and said: The things we’re making are too boring. We want to change that, and you’re our man. Oh, I thought, he knows more about me than I do about myself! Well, in any case that was the start of a development process lasting five years, which ultimately resulted in five office chairs that provided a more dynamic, less gravity-bound sitting experience. They became a great success, and of course that was good for our relationship. Though I should say, the good relationship was there from the very beginning – otherwise our collaboration would not have worked!”

Mario Bellini

This armchair is a visual reminder of Bellini’s ideas regarding the mantra of “form follows function” which he simply sees as premeditated nonsense. It also showcases the designer’s background as a trained architect, who has consistently taken an architectural approach to design, emphasising austerity and precision, yet nevertheless investing his objects with emotion. The main design element is of course the frame itself with an innovative cantilever structure that stands as a balancing act. The curved arms covered in plastic contrast with the square shape of the legs, pulling the design into balance.  The seat and back are upholstered in a red fabric that stands out against the black frame and thus draws the eye. Every small detail reflects the design prowess of Bellini resulting in a piece that far surpasses the ideas of an ‘office chair’.  This “Forma’ chair is both of its time and eternally contemporary, which is one if its main charms. It is sure to elevate any interior while also infusing it with design history.

Bellini was recently acclaimed by The New York Times as the ‘last great protagonist of Italian design’. Indeed, Mario Bellini is one of the predominant Italian designers of the past thirty years and has been the most frequent recipient of the Italian design prize Compasso d’Oro.

Dimensions:

34.25 in W x 24.01 in D x 24.01 in H; Seat height 18.89 in

61 cm W x 64 cm D x 87 cm H; Seat height 48 cm

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair can be reupholstered upon request by our in house atelier in any fabric of choice. Please get in touch with us for details.

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Price range 500-1000 EUR/USD

The design of this European stool is characterized by a minimal, clean approach that seeks to combine functionality with beauty. Its focus is on simple lines and light spaces, devoid of clutter. Accordingly, form and function collide in this stool. From Charlotte Perriand to Axel Einar Hjorth, wooden stools have been staples in European design history.

With a highly functional history and modernist look, this stool is a stylish piece. The seat has a very simple, circular shape, which is supported by three legs that widen towards the end. The edges are rounded, resulting in an aesthetic that is typical of the mid-century era. The round shape also complements the visually arresting pattern of the wood, especially on the seat, where the grain immediately stands out. This stool shares visual characteristics with modernism: it entirely focuses on its solid wood material and well-crafted, but simple lines. There was evidently a lot of care put into the construction; the joinery is seamless, and the surfaces are very smooth even on the legs. The maker of this stool not only had a preference for its main characteristics and material, but a deep respect as well.

The functionality, longevity and clean lines of this solid wood stool are all in favour of the user, maintaining the focus on authentic simplicity. The appreciation of rustic simplicity and craftsmanship has never completely gone out of style, but in recent years, it saw an increase. Adding organic pieces, like this stool to a modern interior can create a diverse and interesting aesthetic with just one item.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wood. The carved seats have strong patina.

Dimensions:

Stool 1

15.35 in W x 14.17 D in x 16.14 in H; Seat height 14.17 in

39 cm W x 36 cm D x 41 cm H; Seat height 36 cm

Stool 2

15.74 in W x 14.96 in D x 16.14 in H; Seat height 13.38 in

40 cm W x 38 cm D x 41 cm H; Seat height 34 cm