Gustav Siegel – Armchair No. 715/F – Designed for the 1900 Paris Exposition – Executed by J. & J. Kohn, Vienna A distinguished example of early 20th-century Viennese design, this armchair, Model No. 715/F, was created by Austrian architect and designer Gustav Siegel for the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1900, where J. & J. Kohn showcased their innovative bentwood furniture to great acclaim. Produced by the esteemed firm Jacob & Josef Kohn, this model embodies the refined elegance of the Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) movement. The armchair is crafted from beechwood, stained a warm reddish-brown, with graceful curves and a minimalist silhouette that reflect Siegel’s modern sensibility. While the frame remains structurally sound, this piece has been restored and shows clear signs of age and use. The seat padding and leather upholstery are later replacements, and the original brass feet are missing. The surface is heavily worn, with visible scuffs and marks consistent with its age. Nonetheless, it retains its historical charm and significance, making it a collector's item with both decorative and archival value. Specifications: Designer: Gustav Siegel Manufacturer: J. & J. Kohn, Vienna Model No.: 715/F Design Year: 1899 (Paris Exposition, 1900) Estimated Period: 1900–1910 Material: Beechwood, Leather Finish: Red-brown stain Style: Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) Colour: Brown Condition: Poor – heavily used with major cracks, damages, or missing parts (restored; seat and upholstery not original; brass shoes missing) Country of Origin: Austria References: Kohn Catalogue, 1906, p. 28 Kohn Catalogue, 1916, p. 40 Renzi, Il Mobile Moderno, p. 28 A rare and authentic piece of Viennese design history, directly linked to the 1900 Paris World’s Fair.