Arne Norell easy chairs

This is a pair of high-backed easy chairs model Krister, designed by Swedish furniture designer Arne Norell and produced by Arne Norell AB in Aneby, Sweden during the 1960s. The chairs embody the understated luxury and comfort characteristic of Scandinavian modernism, combining warm materials with clean, architectural lines. Each chair features a solid rosewood base with tapered legs and a subtle, supportive frame structure that elevates the seat and gives the design a light yet grounded expression.

The upholstery is composed of the original wide-ribbed corduroy fabric in a deep, rich ochre brown tone, which pairs naturally with the dark rosewood grain. The high, gently winged backrest and curved armrests offer ergonomic support, and the chairs are outfitted with matching rectangular headrest pillows that are attached with integrated textile straps. The cushions retain their original fill, which has developed some dryness with age, and the fabric shows light wear and patina consistent with regular use, preserving its character while maintaining structural integrity.

Arne Norell (1917–1971) was known for his innovative yet inviting seating designs, often blending modern forms with traditional craftsmanship. He established his own workshop in Aneby in the 1950s, and by the 1960s his furniture had gained broad international recognition. The Krister model is less common than some of Norell’s more frequently published designs but demonstrates the same refined materiality and attention to proportion. These chairs were originally retailed through Illums Bolighus in Copenhagen, a key institution for modern Scandinavian design that curated and promoted the highest quality Nordic furnishings throughout the mid-century period.

The dimensions of each chair are 73 cm wide, 75 cm deep, and 104 cm high, with a seat height of 41 cm. This corresponds to approximately 28.7 inches in width, 29.5 inches in depth, 40.9 inches in height, and a seat height of 16.1 inches. The overall condition is good with original materials intact, showing some signs of aging in the padding and textile, consistent with the vintage nature of the pieces.