Chairs

This is a rare pair of side chairs of unknown authorship, produced in Scandinavia during the 1950s. Executed entirely in solid elm, the chairs are defined by their sculptural and expressive form, characterized by a split backrest connected by evenly spaced horizontal rods. The two-part backrest tapers upward and is slightly angled to support the spine, giving the design a strong geometric presence while preserving ergonomic intent. The seat is similarly divided, with a subtle curvature toward the center, connected in the middle by round dowels that mirror the construction of the back. Large circular end grain plugs are visible on the seat surface, revealing the method of joinery and reinforcing the handcrafted aesthetic. The legs are turned in a slightly tapered cylindrical form, splaying outward at a gentle angle to provide structural stability.

The elm wood has a warm, golden-brown tone with prominent grain patterns, and the surfaces have been lightly aged through use, with a well-preserved matte patina. Tool marks and slight irregularities are visible, consistent with artisan production methods rather than industrial manufacture. The split-back motif and exposed joinery align with traditions found in both Scandinavian rustic furniture and early modern experimentation.

Each chair measures 31.5 cm in width, 41 cm in depth, and 79 cm in height, with a seat height of 43.5 cm. In imperial units, this corresponds approximately to 12.4 inches wide, 16.1 inches deep, 31.1 inches high, and a seat height of 17.1 inches.