Carl Malmsten easy chairs

This rare set of six easy chairs, designed by Carl Malmsten and produced by Svensk Fur in Sweden during the 1950s, stands as a prime example of rustic Scandinavian modernism. The set fuses traditional Swedish craftsmanship with the expressive qualities of vernacular design, resulting in a timeless ensemble that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. Made entirely from solid pine, the chairs reflect the natural beauty of the wood, showcasing the warmth and organic presence that characterize Scandinavian furniture of the period.

The chairs are executed in a warm-toned pine that displays visible knots and a lively grain, which gives each piece a tactile and natural presence. The sculptural profile of the chairs features rounded seat edges and gently curved backrests that evoke a soft, shield-like shape. A signature cut-out handle integrated into the upper backrest adds a distinctive visual character while enhancing the functional aspect of the design, making the chairs easy to move. The seats are subtly saddle-shaped, providing additional comfort, and are attached to tapered legs that splay slightly outward, ensuring stability and creating a grounded, balanced appearance.

Each chair showcases expressive joinery, particularly at the rear, where the backrest is pegged and mortised into the seat support structure. This exposed joinery not only highlights the craftsmanship but also underscores the artisanal approach championed by Malmsten. The visible construction emphasizes the idea that the design is made to be appreciated in its honesty, revealing the process behind its creation.

Carl Malmsten, one of Sweden’s most beloved designers, was a key figure in shaping the country’s 20th-century design ethos. He was an advocate for preserving Swedish cultural heritage through handcrafted designs, often as a counterpoint to the industrial aesthetic of international modernism. His collaboration with Svensk Fur, a company known for working with native pine, led to the creation of pieces that were both humble in material and refined in execution.

The chairs belong stylistically to the Scandinavian folk-modern hybrid that emerged in mid-century Swedish design. The blend of rural authenticity with modern principles of simplicity and function results in a design that feels at home in informal domestic settings. The chairs’ relatively low stature and gently curved surfaces make them ideal for relaxed environments, such as mountain cottages or summer villas, where comfort and natural materials were valued.

The set is in very good vintage condition, with natural wear and patina consistent with age. The pine retains its original finish, showing subtle signs of use that enhance the authenticity of the pieces while preserving their structural integrity. A matching pine coffee table by Malmsten, complementing the aesthetic of the chairs, is also available, further enhancing the cohesive nature of the ensemble.