Arne Norell sofa

Item number: 131444Category: Seating
Information

This two-seat Ilona sofa, produced by Arne Norell AB in Aneby, Sweden during the 1960s, exemplifies the designer’s fusion of structural clarity and tactile comfort. Its frame is constructed from solid beechwood, left in a natural finish that has mellowed to a warm honey tone over time. The cylindrical posts and rails are connected with visible dowel and mortise-and-tenon joinery, celebrating the piece’s honest construction rather than concealing it.

Suspended within this open framework are the original black leather slings that form both seat and back cushions. The thick vegetable-tanned hide has softened to a deep charcoal patina, bearing gentle creasing and surface variations where the leather flexes most. Wide leather straps wrap around the frame’s rear posts and secure the cushions with solid brass buckles. These buckles, now muted by age, punctuate the sofa’s silhouette with precise, functional hardware that doubles as a decorative motif when viewed from behind.

The sofa’s proportions are generous yet balanced: it spans 150 cm in width and 80 cm in depth, with an overall height of 78 cm and a comfortable seat height of 42 cm. The cushions are filled with resilient padding that maintains form without sacrificing softness. The backrests rise just high enough to support the lumbar region, promoting a relaxed posture while preserving the frame’s lightweight aesthetic.

Arne Norell (1917–1971) was renowned for blending traditional craftsmanship with modernist principles. In the Ilona series, he drew inspiration from both Scandinavian woodworking traditions and English saddle-bag suspensions, resulting in seating that is at once rustic and refined. Arne Norell AB’s in-house workshop ensured that each piece met exacting standards of joinery, leatherwork and finish, allowing the structural elements to remain visible as part of the overall design language.

This two-seat Ilona remains in good vintage condition. The beech frame shows only minor scuffing at the leg bases and soft rounding at high-contact edges. The leather retains its suppleness and shows no splits or tears, while the brass buckles exhibit a gentle tarnish consistent with careful use. Overall, the sofa stands as a compelling example of Norell’s approach to honest materials, exposed construction and enduring comfort.

Product Details
Dimensions (cm)
W: 150 / D: 80 / H: 78 / Seat H: 42
ProducerArne Norell AB
ColorBlack
Decade1960s
CountrySweden
StyleMid Century, Scandinavian Modern
MaterialBeech, Brass, Leather
Designed in1960s
Item Number131444
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Designer

Arne Norell

Disclaimer
Our furniture is carefully selected original objects with a documented design history. As they are vintage items, there is normal wear, age-related patina, minor marks or variations in surface and color. These traces are part of the authenticity of the furniture and do not constitute defects.
All objects are photographed in studio light to show details, finish and proportions. We strive to reproduce color and material as accurately as possible, but minor deviations may occur depending on the monitor and lighting conditions. Dimensions are given with a certain margin.
Structural or functional remarks are noted in the description when they exist. For complete security, we recommend that you contact us if you have any questions or if you would like additional pictures or information before purchasing.