Alvar Aalto easy chairs

This rare pair of model 402 easy chairs, designed by Alvar Aalto and produced by Artek in Finland, represents a seminal achievement in early Scandinavian modernism. The chairs showcase Aalto’s pioneering use of bentwood, employing a cantilevered frame crafted from stained and laminated birch. The design balances fluid, organic lines—most notably in the sweeping armrests and legs—with the geometric simplicity of the seat and backrest, embodying the functionalist ideals of the period.

The frames are constructed using Aalto’s innovative lamination technique, which enables a continuous and resilient form that combines flexibility with structural strength. The dark-stained birch adds visual depth and a rich patina developed through age. Upholstered in the original wool fabric, woven in muted earthy tones, the seats and backs offer a tactile warmth and texture. The fabric exhibits minor wear and age-related patina, enhancing the chairs’ authenticity and vintage character.

Introduced in 1933, the Model 402 was a significant exploration of form and function by Aalto. The cantilevered design delivers a light, floating aesthetic while providing excellent ergonomic support. Its gently reclined backrest and well-proportioned seat facilitate comfortable, relaxed seating.

This pair remains in original condition, with the wood’s deep patina and the upholstery’s preserved character testifying to the lasting quality and appeal of Aalto’s design philosophy. The chairs measure 59 cm in width, 71 cm in depth, and 69.5 cm in height, with a seat height of 40 cm (23.2 x 28 x 27.4 inches, seat height 15.7 inches).