Bruno Mathsson sofa

This rare three-seat sofa, model Karin, was designed by Bruno Mathsson and produced by DUX in Sweden during the 1960s. Mathsson, a pivotal figure in Swedish modernism, was renowned for his ergonomic designs that blend modernist ideals with traditional craftsmanship and human-centered functionality. Introduced in 1969, the Karin series remains one of his most iconic contributions to upholstered seating.

The sofa’s frame is made from tubular steel with a chrome-plated finish, featuring eight visible ball-bearing castors that enhance its mobility while emphasizing the piece’s lightweight and functional character. The seating support consists of tensioned canvas webbing, providing flexible comfort and secure cushion placement. The cushions are upholstered in the original black leather, distinguished by deep button tufting and visible stitching. The leather shows a supple finish with a natural patina and surface creasing consistent with age and use, adding to the piece’s character.

The rear is backed in natural jute canvas, offering a tactile contrast and allowing the sofa to stand freely within a space. The armrests are supported by curved steel frames with leather-padded covers, underscoring Mathsson’s attention to ergonomic and tactile details. The DUX branding is confirmed by the repeating logo pattern visible on the underside of one cushion’s original textile backing.

This sofa exemplifies mid-century Scandinavian design principles through its use of industrial materials, elegant proportions, and comfortable upholstery. The condition is good, showing age-related wear such as minor scuffing, light oxidation on the steel frame, and some wear on the edges of the leather cushions. Nevertheless, all components remain structurally sound and fully functional.

The sofa measures 210 cm in width, 80 cm in depth, and 80 cm in height, with a seat height of 38 cm (approximately 82.7 x 31.5 x 31.5 inches, with a seat height of 15 inches).