Josef Frank dining chairs

This set of six dining chairs, model B2027, was designed by Josef Frank and produced by Svenskt Tenn in Sweden during the 1950s. The chairs are constructed in walnut, a material chosen for its warm tone, refined grain structure, and stability. Each frame displays smooth, gently shaped elements with the characteristic clarity of Frank’s furniture designs, where structural lines remain visually light while maintaining strength and durability.

The backrests are formed by two curved vertical supports meeting a slightly arched top rail. This configuration produces an open and symmetrical silhouette, while the inward curve of the supports adds a subtle sculptural quality. The rear legs continue this curvature, extending downward in a gentle arc that enhances both posture and comfort. The front legs and stretchers are straight and precise, contributing to the structural rigidity of the chair.

The upholstered seats retain a floral textile consistent with Svenskt Tenn’s decorative language. The pattern features stylized foliage, birds, and organic forms rendered in vivid colors on a neutral ground. This textile reflects Josef Frank’s interest in botanical and imaginative motifs, which he used to soften modern interiors and create environments defined by warmth and visual richness. The padding provides a firm yet comfortable seating surface suitable for daily use.

Josef Frank’s approach to furniture design emphasized lightness, proportional harmony, and a rejection of strict minimalism. The B2027 model represents these principles through its slender construction, its absence of unnecessary ornamentation, and its reliance on natural materials and gentle curves. Svenskt Tenn’s craftsmanship is evident in the precision of joints, the finish of the walnut surfaces, and the careful integration of the textile with the wooden frame.

The set is in good condition with small signs of usage, including minor wear to the wood surfaces and slight aging to the fabric. These characteristics are expected for chairs from the 1950s and do not affect their structural integrity.

The dimensions of each chair are 45 cm in width, 55 cm in depth, and 84 cm in height, corresponding to approximately 17.7 inches by 21.7 inches by 33.1 inches. The seat height is 44 cm, or approximately 17.3 inches.