Chair - Oak - Modernist Dutch Art Deco

Dutch Art Deco Modernist Armchair or Loungechair in Oak with Blue Upholstery, 1930s.

A remarkably forward-looking Dutch Art Deco armchair from the 1930s, executed in oak with blue textile upholstery. Although clearly rooted in the Dutch interwar period, the chair has an unexpectedly modern lightness. At first glance it could almost be mistaken for a Scandinavian or 1960s modernist design, yet it predates that language by several decades: a piece of Dutch mid century modern avant la lettre.

The design is all about structure. The oak frame is open, architectural and honest, with long straight armrests, sharply angled rear legs and a gently raked back. The side view is especially strong: the chair leans backwards in a poised, graphic silhouette, while the front posts and horizontal arms create a clean rhythm of lines. The wood grain, the stance and the proportions do the work.

It's a rare to find design from the 1930s. It does not have much of the Hague School characteristics nor of the more ornamental Amsterdam School Art Deco seating. The open frame, the light form bring it close in spirit to later Scandinavian modern design. Its most distinctive feature is the side profile: a raked backrest and silhouette, with the rear legs continuing upward into the back supports and the long armrests pointing upwards giving the chair a clean, architectural line.

The upholstery is vintage in used condition. The nailhead trim along the back adds just enough traditional detail to remind us that this is still a 1930s piece.

The chair would work beautifully as an accent chair, reading chair or gallery piece. It has enough presence to stand alone, but it is also restrained enough to sit naturally in a modern interior, particularly with Dutch Art Deco, Hague School, Wouda-style furniture, Scandinavian design, or a layered eclectic setting.

Condition
Very good vintage condition. The wooden frame has been cleaned but has not yet received its final finish. It can be kept as it is for a clean, natural oak appearance, or it can be stained darker and finished according to preference. The chair is stable and very usable. The vintage upholstery is presentable and atmospheric, with small signs of age and wear consistent with use.

Shipping
Selecting “pick-up” at checkout does not necessarily mean you need to arrange transport yourself. We can organise your professional crated shipment to almost anywhere in the world.
You are welcome to ask for a shipping estimate during the auction, before bidding. Contact Studio Eklektik in Nederland, Everdingen.