Vintage Paimio #41 Plywood Armchair by Alvar Aalto for Artek

Details

Description

This vintage mid century modern Paimio #41 arm chair originally designed by modernist architect Alvar Aalto in 1928 was made … Read more This vintage mid century modern Paimio #41 arm chair originally designed by modernist architect Alvar Aalto in 1928 was made in Finland by Artek circa 1960. A tour de force in bentwood, the Paimio chair tested the limits of plywood manufacturing in the early 1930s. The armrests and the legs - the rings - are made of 100% Finnish birch plywood in a natural finish contrasted with black lacquered wooden seats built from a single piece of pressed plywood. Admired as much for its sculptural presence as for its comfort, the Paimio chair was named after and designed for the Paimio tuberculosis sanatorium in Southwest Finland and was designed by Alvar Aalto at the same time as the sanatorium. The armchair was intended to help people breathe easier and the sleek curved contours and simple, yet striking form of this chair has become iconic. Branded “the first soft wooden chair,” the Paimio inspired countless other mid century designers, including Eero Saarinen and Charles and Ray Eames.

CONDITION
Excellent vintage condition with general wear consistent with age and use including minor surface scratches, scuffs, and small imperfections in line with overall vintage appearance. Some scrapes and minor chipping to black lacquered seat especially along the front edges and backrest as per photos.

DIMENSIONS
W 23.75” x D 34” x H 26”
Seat Height: 13” See less