Description
Background Info and Provenance
(Written in 2015)
A VINTAGE PAIR of cane minimalist chairs. (Bidding is for 2 SINGLES. Both chairs have cushions but they look good without them too. They are comfortable with or without cushions.) This pair of chairs is similar to the Pretzel design by Italian designer, Paul Frankl. I’m not sure of the maker of these. I’d put money on them being Scandinavian. The canvas backing is exactly the same as the famous Siesta Chair by Danish designer Ingmar Relling which was produced by Norwegian company, Westnofa. It’s possible this is a Westnofa production as well but despite exhaustive trawling on the internet I can’t locate any information (and after 15 years running this business I’m pretty handy at finding these things out!) I’m 99.8% sure these are not Australian- chairs like this just aren’t seen here and I also say this because of the canvas backs. I’ve seen this design only once before in my time in this business (and the other time I asked if the people would sell the suite but they declined!). I don’t blame them. I like this design just as much as the award-winning Siesta chair. This is the epitome of chic minimalism and the curves are just stunning- under-stated but still noticed. From some angles the Pretzel chair style comes through- at others its total minimalism- even the light tone of the frame is chic and “clean”. On the 1stdibs website in America Westnofa Siesta single chairs are currently getting about $1600 for a SINGLE chair (approx. $3000 the pair). I think this pair has just as much appeal. The fact that you’ll probably never see this design again gives them even more appeal.
This pair displays the HIGHEST quality workmanship- the canvas backing has a lot of work in it. One aspect that highlights the quality is the thick plastic lining sewn underneath to strengthen the seat. The sewing is heavy-duty and strong. The cushion upholstery looks like wool to me which is also top quality. The comfort is great- great angles, great support but also plush comfort. They have a well-supported, relaxed comfort.
To top it off this pair of chairs also has excellent investment appeal- they’re definitely vintage- I’d say 1960’s. They could well be a design classic in one of the Scandinavian countries. REPLICA Frankl pairs of single seaters sell for $2500 on-line (and who really knows the construction quality).
The appeal of investing in vintage furniture is simple. When furniture looks like this after about 50 years of use you have complete faith in the quality you’re buying and that the item will last the long haul. Investing in vintage furniture is one of the best ways to invest in your home and reduce landfill and your carbon footprint.
(NOTE- We also have a matching 2-seater sofa in this design that came out of the same house. That listing appears in our Lounge Sofas Category.)
NOTE- This description was written in 2015. Any values stated are subject to change over time.)
