Kho Liang Ie sofa
This sofa, model C683, was designed by Kho Liang Ie and produced by Artifort in the Netherlands in 1968. It is a prime example of late mid-century modern design, showcasing a minimalist yet sophisticated form that emphasizes both comfort and structural clarity.
The sofa is constructed with a chromed steel base, providing a lightweight yet sturdy framework with a clean, polished surface. The seat and backrest have been newly reupholstered in a white bouclé fabric, offering a rich, tactile quality and a soft visual texture. The bouclé material enhances the crisp, geometric silhouette of the piece while adding a sense of warmth and inviting tactility.
The form is defined by sharp lines and a subtly reclined profile. The seat flows seamlessly into the angled backrest, creating an integrated, sculptural shape. The steel legs are bent into distinctive sled-like runners, contributing to the visual lightness and stability of the overall composition.
The sofa is in excellent condition, with newly applied upholstery and a well-preserved chromed frame. Minor signs of previous use may be visible upon close inspection of the base, consistent with its vintage origin, but these do not detract from the pristine overall appearance.
Kho Liang Ie (1927–1975) was an influential Dutch designer and architect, known for his role in shaping Artifort’s international image during the 1960s and 1970s. His designs are characterized by their clear structure, refined aesthetics, and attention to both functional and emotional aspects of use. Liang Ie collaborated with many leading figures of the modernist movement and remains a significant figure in European post-war design history.
Artifort, founded in 1890, became one of the premier Dutch furniture manufacturers, particularly noted for its collaborations with designers such as Pierre Paulin, Geoffrey Harcourt, and Kho Liang Ie. The company’s work is synonymous with modernist innovation and high-quality craftsmanship.
The style of this sofa fits within the broader context of mid-century modern and Dutch modern design, marked by simplicity of form, innovative use of materials, and a focus on both aesthetics and user experience.
Dimensions are 242 cm wide, 72 cm deep, 61 cm high, with a seat height of 30 cm (approximately 95.3 inches wide, 28.3 inches deep, 24 inches high, and 11.8 inches seat height).