Bruno Mathsson lounge chair

This lounge chair with matching stool was designed by Bruno Mathsson and produced by Firma Karl Mathsson in Värnamo, Sweden. The set represents a later production example of Mathsson’s long-standing exploration of ergonomic seating, where the structure is reduced to essential load-bearing elements and the comfort is achieved through carefully calculated curvature and flexible suspension.

Both pieces are constructed in solid beech, shaped into softly rounded profiles with an organic, flowing geometry. The legs are formed in a continuous arch, creating a stable yet visually light frame that lifts the body from the floor while maintaining an open architectural expression. The warm honey-toned beech shows a fine grain pattern and a smooth surface finish, consistent with Scandinavian cabinetmaking traditions and Mathsson’s emphasis on natural material qualities.

The seating surfaces are executed in woven webbing, arranged in a wide basket-weave pattern. The webbing has a muted beige-brown tone and forms a resilient suspended surface that adapts to body weight, functioning as an integrated spring system without the need for upholstery. The chair is accompanied by a loose sheepskin, adding a soft tactile layer and emphasizing the intended combination of functional modernism with domestic comfort. The chair includes a loose headrest cushion in matching neutral fabric, secured with leather straps at the upper backrest.

Bruno Mathsson is regarded as one of Sweden’s most influential furniture designers of the 20th century, known for his pioneering work in functionalist seating and his systematic studies of posture and body support. His designs often combine traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques, and his characteristic use of laminated and bent wood became central to Scandinavian modern furniture. The ergonomic principles developed by Mathsson were widely adopted and helped shape the Swedish approach to furniture design during the mid-century period and beyond.

The producer, Firma Karl Mathsson in Värnamo, was a key manufacturer of Mathsson’s furniture and played an important role in bringing his designs into production. The company maintained high standards of woodworking and was known for executing Mathsson’s technically demanding constructions, particularly those involving curved wooden frames and tensioned woven supports. This set is marked and dated 1978, confirming its production period.

The chair and stool are in good vintage condition with visible signs of use and patina. The beech frames show minor surface wear and small marks consistent with age. The woven webbing displays gentle wear and tonal variation from use, while remaining structurally intact. The loose sheepskin and headrest cushion show light wear consistent with age and handling.

Dimensions chair: width 50.5 cm, depth 96 cm, height 91 cm (19.88 x 37.80 x 35.83 in). Seat height 32 cm (12.60 in).
Dimensions stool: width 50.5 cm, depth 65.5 cm, height 40 cm (19.88 x 25.79 x 15.75 in).