Alvar Aalto easy chair

Very rare highback “Tank” easy chair model A38 designed by Alvar Aalto and produced by Artek in Finland during the 1930s. The model represents one of the earliest and most architecturally ambitious explorations of laminated bentwood furniture within Scandinavian modernism. Characterized by its low reclining profile, continuous bent birch arm supports, and sculptural high back with integrated winged headrest, the chair demonstrates Aalto’s pioneering approach to combining modern industrial techniques with organic and human-centered forms.

The frame is executed in laminated birch with warm honey-toned coloration and visible grain variation throughout the curved elements. The construction is based around two continuous loop-form supports which function simultaneously as legs, armrests, and structural carriers for the upholstered body. The bent birch components display the fluid and technically advanced shaping that became central to Aalto’s furniture designs from the 1930s onward. The chair retains a visually lightweight appearance despite its substantial proportions, with the curved runners creating a suspended effect beneath the upholstered seat and backrest.

The upholstery has been newly executed in natural sheepskin with a dense and tactile surface in a warm ivory tone. The material emphasizes the generous and enveloping form of the chair while enhancing its soft sculptural character. The backrest terminates in distinctive wing-shaped head supports, a defining feature of this highback “Tank” model, designed to create both physical comfort and visual enclosure. Internally, the chair has been fully restored with renewed springs, preserving the original seating construction while improving structural stability and comfort. Images documenting the restoration process can be provided.

Alvar Aalto was one of the most influential figures in 20th century architecture and furniture design. Together with Aino Aalto and later through Artek, founded in 1935, he developed a new vocabulary for modern furniture based on laminated wood technology and organic form. In contrast to the more rigid tubular steel furniture associated with continental modernism, Aalto’s work introduced warmth, tactility, and natural materials into modern interiors. The “Tank” chair series remains among his most iconic seating designs and is considered an important example of early Scandinavian functionalism.

Artek played a crucial role in disseminating Finnish modern design internationally during the mid-20th century. The company became known for its technically innovative bentwood production and close collaboration with architects and designers. Early examples from the 1930s are considerably rarer than later production and are especially valued for their handcrafted details, early construction methods, and historical significance within modern furniture design.

The chair remains in good vintage condition with signs of age and usage. The birch frame shows patina, surface wear, minor marks, and age-related variation consistent with careful long-term use. The upholstery and internal springs have been professionally restored while respecting the original character and proportions of the design.

Dimensions: 75.5 cm width x 95 cm depth x 91 cm height, seat height 43 cm / 29.7 in width x 37.4 in depth x 35.8 in height, seat height 16.9 in.