Bruno Mathsson lounge chair
This lounge chair, designed by Bruno Mathsson in 1936 and produced by Karl Mathsson in Värnamo, Sweden, is an early and rare example of Scandinavian modernist furniture. The frame is crafted from stained birch, showcasing a flowing, organic form that embodies Mathsson’s innovative ergonomic design philosophy. The chair features bentwood legs that smoothly transition into a sinuous frame, providing structural support while maintaining an elegant, fluid appearance.
The seating surface is made from original hemp webbing, woven in a tight, uniform pattern. The webbing follows the contours of the curved frame, allowing for a natural, body-conforming recline. The chair’s overall silhouette is marked by its undulating, wave-like form, which enhances both its comfort and visual lightness. This combination of ergonomic design and sculptural form was revolutionary for its time, blending form with function in a way that would come to define much of Scandinavian modernism.
Bruno Mathsson, a pioneering Swedish designer, is renowned for his work in functionalism and seating ergonomics. His designs in the 1930s, such as this chair, were groundbreaking, integrating organic curves with user-centered engineering to enhance both comfort and visual appeal. Karl Mathsson, Bruno’s father and a skilled producer in Värnamo, was instrumental in bringing these experimental designs to life, employing advanced bentwood techniques that enabled the creation of the chair’s fluid, sculptural lines.
This chair is an iconic representation of mid-century Scandinavian modernism, illustrating the movement’s focus on craftsmanship, natural materials, and human-centered design. The piece remains in its original condition, with patina consistent with age, reflecting its authenticity and the integrity of the materials and craftsmanship. The dimensions of the chair are 51 cm (20.1 inches) in width, 105 cm (41.3 inches) in depth, and 73.5 cm (28.9 inches) in height, with a seat height of 34 cm (13.4 inches). It offers a compact yet inviting form, ideal for a relaxed and reclined seating position.
