Artifort - Theo Ruth - Armchair - Cotton
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Description from the seller
Vintage Artifort “Penguin” chair — Theo Ruth (1953)
Iconic Dutch design from the 1950s: the original “Penguin” chair, designed by Theo Ruth for Artifort (1953). Characteristic for its organic, playful lines and comfortable seating surface. The chair consists of two interlocking base elements with the forked quick-assembly system — a technically ingenious construction without screws or locks. This piece has vintage character with normal signs of wear and slight discoloration on the armrests, contributing to the authentic look.
Key features
Designer: Theo Ruth (Netherlands, 1915–1971)
Manufacturer: Artifort
Year: 1953
Construction: two interlocking parts with forked quick-assembly system (no screws)
Condition: vintage — normal signs of wear; discoloration on armrests
Comfort: spacious, ergonomically shaped seating surface
Background and design origin
Theo Ruth, educated at the Secondary School of Decorative Arts in Maastricht, joined Artifort in 1936 and became head of design and development in 1939. As Artifort’s first permanent designer, Ruth had a major influence on the brand’s design archive. The Penguin (1953) and the Congo chair (1952) are characteristic of his approach: furniture built from two interlocking parts that come together without fasteners. Originally, the Penguin was often produced with a black back and a white cushion — a nod to its name.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 78 cm
Width: 72 cm
Depth: 75 cm
Seat depth: 45 cm
Seat height: 40 cm
Vintage Artifort “Penguin” chair — Theo Ruth (1953)
Iconic Dutch design from the 1950s: the original “Penguin” chair, designed by Theo Ruth for Artifort (1953). Characteristic for its organic, playful lines and comfortable seating surface. The chair consists of two interlocking base elements with the forked quick-assembly system — a technically ingenious construction without screws or locks. This piece has vintage character with normal signs of wear and slight discoloration on the armrests, contributing to the authentic look.
Key features
Designer: Theo Ruth (Netherlands, 1915–1971)
Manufacturer: Artifort
Year: 1953
Construction: two interlocking parts with forked quick-assembly system (no screws)
Condition: vintage — normal signs of wear; discoloration on armrests
Comfort: spacious, ergonomically shaped seating surface
Background and design origin
Theo Ruth, educated at the Secondary School of Decorative Arts in Maastricht, joined Artifort in 1936 and became head of design and development in 1939. As Artifort’s first permanent designer, Ruth had a major influence on the brand’s design archive. The Penguin (1953) and the Congo chair (1952) are characteristic of his approach: furniture built from two interlocking parts that come together without fasteners. Originally, the Penguin was often produced with a black back and a white cushion — a nod to its name.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 78 cm
Width: 72 cm
Depth: 75 cm
Seat depth: 45 cm
Seat height: 40 cm
Details
Era
1900-2000
Country of origin
Netherlands
Manufacturer/brand
Artifort
Designer/artist/maker
Theo Ruth
Material
Cotton
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
78 cm
Width
72 cm
Depth
75 cm
Estimated period
1950-1960
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