Maija Ruoslahti sofa

This rare two-seat sofa was designed by Maija Ruoslahti and produced by Sopenkorpi in Finland in 1967. The piece is a notable example of Scandinavian mid-century craftsmanship, combining a sculptural presence with refined materiality. Its structure is defined by a bold, architectonic frame crafted from richly grained rosewood panels featuring rounded corners and cut-out sections. The frame encloses the seat and arm cushions in a recessed configuration, creating a continuous flow of wood along the sides and back that highlights the contrast between solid surfaces and voids while anchoring the composition with warm, natural depth.

The seating comprises thick, button-tufted cushions upholstered in cognac brown leather, resting within the rosewood frame. These cushions are generously padded and show natural patina, creasing, and wear consistent with the aging of high-quality vegetable-tanned leather over nearly six decades. The smooth curves and vivid grain of the rosewood complement the tactile softness of the leather, resulting in a balanced and relaxed aesthetic. Brass fasteners visible on the wood panels provide functional accents, reinforcing the utilitarian elegance characteristic of Nordic design.

Maija Ruoslahti, though less widely known internationally, played a meaningful role in Finnish design during the 1960s, focusing on materiality, modularity, and the relationship between furniture and architectural space. This sofa is one of her few documented surviving works, demonstrating a keen sensitivity to proportion, ergonomics, and compositional harmony. The manufacturer, Sopenkorpi, was recognized in the Finnish modernist scene for its high-quality wood craftsmanship and small-scale production, enhancing the rarity and authenticity of the piece.

Stylistically, the sofa exemplifies late Scandinavian modernism, characterized by expressive use of tropical hardwoods, structural innovation, and an organic integration of upholstery. It remains in very good vintage condition, with a richly developed leather patina and minor, well-preserved wear to the rosewood shell.

The sofa measures 145 cm in width, 80 cm in depth, and 70 cm in height, with a seat height of 39 cm. In imperial units, this corresponds to approximately 57.1 inches wide, 31.5 inches deep, 27.6 inches high, and a seat height of 15.4 inches.