Bruno Mathsson dining chairs

Set of five rare dining chairs, model “Mimat” designed by Bruno Mathsson in 1941 and produced by Firma Karl Mathsson in Värnamo, Sweden. Each chair is constructed in solid birch, with original linen webbing seats woven in a checkerboard pattern. The birch wood presents a warm, honey-toned surface with a satin finish, showcasing subtle grain variation. The seats are tightly hand-woven with wide, natural-colored linen straps, which remain intact and in original condition. The chairs feature a slightly concave crest rail, a square-section back with dual horizontal supports, and tapered, faceted legs, creating a balanced and lightweight silhouette.

Bruno Mathsson (1907–1988) was a key figure in Swedish functionalist design, known for his ergonomic approach and innovative use of laminated wood and textile seating. Mathsson’s designs emphasized organic comfort, structural logic, and craftsmanship, aligning with the ideals of Scandinavian modernism. The Mimat model represents a transitional phase in Mathsson’s work, preceding his more well-known laminated bentwood forms, and is notable for its minimal structure and exposed woven seat.

Firma Karl Mathsson, the family-run workshop founded by Bruno’s father, played a central role in producing Mathsson’s early designs. Located in Värnamo, the firm was known for precision woodworking and close designer collaboration. The Mimat model is among the earliest chair types to explore Mathsson’s interest in form-fitted, supportive seating using traditional joinery and natural materials.

This set is in very good condition with light signs of age and use, including minor wear to the birch and slight patination of the webbing consistent with age. Structurally stable and complete, with no restoration noted.

Each chair measures 47 cm in width, 53 cm in depth, and 84.5 cm in height, with a seat height of 45 cm. In inches, this corresponds to approximately 18.5 inches wide, 20.9 inches deep, 33.3 inches high, and a seat height of 17.7 inches.