Rosewood and Leather 'Sloucher' Lounge Chair by Don Shoemaker, 1960s, Signed

Details

Description

An iconic example of Mexican modernist craftsmanship, this original “Sloucher” lounge chair was designed by Don Shoemaker for Senal, Mexico, … Read more An iconic example of Mexican modernist craftsmanship, this original “Sloucher” lounge chair was designed by Don Shoemaker for Senal, Mexico, circa 1960s. Executed in richly grained solid rosewood with its original thick saddle leather sling seat and bearing the original Senal S.A. label, this sculptural lounge chair represents one of Shoemaker’s most celebrated and enduring designs.

Don Shoemaker is widely regarded as one of the most important figures in Mexican modern furniture design, known for elevating traditional woodworking techniques into the realm of collectible studio furniture. His collaboration with Senal S.A. in the 1960s produced a series of handcrafted seating forms that merged organic modernism with exceptional joinery and materiality. The “Sloucher” chair stands among the most recognizable of these works, prized for its deeply sculptural profile and relaxed, low-slung seating position.

The frame is executed in solid rosewood with dramatic natural figuring and warm tonal depth, hand-shaped into flowing organic lines that define the arms, legs, and stretchers in one continuous visual rhythm. The thick original saddle leather sling is suspended within the frame and secured with Shoemaker’s signature wood and leather button detailing, creating both structural support and visual contrast. Over time the leather has developed a rich patina consistent with age, complementing the depth and character of the rosewood.

This easy chair embodies the essence of Organic Modern, Mexican Modern, and Mid-Century Modern design, while also pairing effortlessly with Brazilian Modern, Scandinavian Modern, and Studio Craft interiors. Its sculptural presence allows it to function as a focal point within a living room, library, or gallery-like setting, while the relaxed sling construction offers exceptional comfort true to its “Sloucher” name. Ideal for collectors of Don Shoemaker, Senal, and Latin American modern design, it also integrates beautifully into contemporary, rustic modern, or curated eclectic interiors.

Equally suited for residential or high-end commercial environments, this chair would be at home in a sophisticated living room, study, or bedroom setting, and would also make a compelling addition to a hotel lobby, members club, executive office, or creative studio. Whether used as a lounge chair, occasional chair, reading chair, fireside chair, or statement accent piece, this original 1960s example represents an increasingly scarce and highly collectible work of functional sculpture from one of Mexico’s most important modern designers.

MEASUREMENTS:
H 27.5" x W 23.5" x D 27.5"
Seat Height: 15.25"
Seat Depth: 16"

CONDITION:
Good vintage condition with minor age related wear and patina. There are decorative wood dowels (pins) throughout, some with minor breaks or losses and one of them is missing but does not affect the use of the chair. This is common amongst vintage Shoemaker chairs. Rosewood has minor scratches and scuffs. Leather has light distressing as can be seen in photos, along with attractive age and patina including scratches, scuffs and loss of color. Attractive vintage example ready for immediate use. See less