Sigvard Nilsson bar stools

This large set of six bar stools was designed by Sigvard Nilsson and produced by Söwe Konst in Sweden during the 1960s. They are crafted entirely in solid poplar wood, a material chosen for its warm tone, visible grain, and natural durability. Each stool is unique in its surface expression, as the design intentionally retains the organic irregularities, knots, and growth patterns of the wood. The round seats are cut directly from thick tree sections, revealing the natural rings of the timber, while the legs preserve the raw contours of the trunk. This results in a sculptural quality that blurs the line between functional furniture and decorative object.

The design is minimalist in construction, with three solid legs connected by round stretchers for added stability. Despite the rustic expression, the proportions and careful detailing reflect the Scandinavian modernist tradition, where simplicity, natural materials, and craftsmanship were emphasized. The stools carry the branding “Söwe Sweden” and “Poppel” on the underside, marking both their authenticity and origin.

The set is in excellent vintage condition with minor signs of use and an appealing patina that highlights the natural qualities of the wood. These stools represent a meeting between mid-century Scandinavian design ideals and a more primitive, handcrafted aesthetic. Their tactile presence and organic shapes make them versatile as seating, side tables, or sculptural elements in an interior.

Dimensions (Ø x H): 28 x 72 cm (11 x 28.3 inches).