Alvar Aalto easy chair

This cantilevered easy chair, model 406, was designed by Alvar Aalto and produced by Artek in Finland. It is one of Aalto’s most recognized seating designs, originally conceived in the 1930s and produced throughout the mid-20th century. This particular example dates from the 1960s and reflects the principles of Scandinavian modernism with its balance of functional form, natural materials, and refined craftsmanship.

The chair is constructed from bent laminated birch, a technique pioneered by Aalto that allowed wood to be shaped into fluid, organic curves without losing strength. The frame is formed into a continuous cantilever structure, giving the chair its light, floating appearance and resilient comfort. The seat and backrest are made of woven cane, creating a breathable and flexible surface that adapts to the sitter. The combination of natural birch and cane provides both durability and a tactile warmth that is characteristic of Aalto’s furniture.

The condition is good vintage, with signs of age and patina consistent with decades of use. The birch frame shows traces of wear, while the woven cane has aged with a natural variation in tone, further emphasizing the authenticity and history of the piece. These elements contribute to the unique character of the chair while maintaining structural integrity.

Aalto’s model 406 is considered a milestone in modern furniture design, embodying the designer’s vision of uniting modernist ideals with human comfort and natural materials. It stands as a key example of Scandinavian mid-century design, bridging functionality and aesthetics with timeless elegance.

Dimensions: width 60 cm (23.6 in), depth 69 cm (27.2 in), height 87 cm (34.3 in), seat height 36 cm (14.2 in)