Vladimir Kagan 11.5 Ft Iconic Serpentine Sofa Manufactured by Directional

Details

Description

An extraordinary 11½-foot Serpentine sofa designed by Vladimir Kagan and manufactured by Directional, representing one of the most iconic and … Read more An extraordinary 11½-foot Serpentine sofa designed by Vladimir Kagan and manufactured by Directional, representing one of the most iconic and recognizable designs in American Mid-Century Modern furniture.

Measuring an impressive 138 inches wide, this sculptural sofa features Kagan's signature flowing, asymmetrical silhouette, with a dramatic curved seat, integrated rounded backrest, and an extended chaise-like end. Its sweeping organic form creates a striking architectural presence, making it an exceptional statement piece for a spacious living room, contemporary residence, or sophisticated collector's interior.

The sofa rests on circular wood bases with discreet Lucite supports beneath the sweeping central section, giving its substantial form a distinctive floating appearance.

The sofa retains its original Directional manufacturer's tags, confirming its association with the renowned American furniture company. The frame is structurally sound; however, the existing upholstery exhibits significant wear, staining, and fabric damage and requires complete reupholstery. This presents an excellent opportunity to restore the piece in a fabric of the buyer's choosing while preserving its iconic original design.

About Vladimir Kagan and Directional

Vladimir Kagan (1927–2016) was one of the most influential American furniture designers of the 20th century, celebrated for his groundbreaking approach to organic modernism. Born in Germany, Kagan immigrated to the United States in 1938 and began developing his distinctive furniture designs in the 1940s.

His legendary Serpentine sofa, originally conceived around 1950, challenged conventional furniture arrangements with its fluid curves and innovative seating configuration. Rather than positioning furniture against walls, Kagan envisioned sculptural pieces that encouraged conversation while allowing occupants to appreciate art and architecture from multiple perspectives.

Directional, an important American furniture manufacturer, produced versions of Kagan's celebrated designs, helping bring his distinctive modernist aesthetic to a wider audience.

Kagan's work is admired alongside that of important designers such as Adrian Pearsall, Milo Baughman, Edward Wormley, Harvey Probber, and Pierre Paulin, whose furniture similarly explored sophisticated upholstery, sculptural forms, and modern living.

Today, Kagan's designs remain highly sought after by collectors, architects, and interior designers for their timeless elegance, innovative craftsmanship, and unmistakable silhouettes.

Condition
Restoration required. The sofa is structurally sound and retains its original Directional manufacturer's tags. The existing upholstery displays extensive staining, discoloration, wear, and areas of torn or damaged fabric. Complete reupholstery is necessary.

The original curved silhouette, circular wooden bases, and Lucite supports are present. Please review all photographs for details.

Measurements
Overall width: 138 inches (350.52 cm)
Maximum depth: 50 inches (127 cm), at the deepest curve
Depth at curved end: 40 inches (101.6 cm)
Overall height: 29 inches (73.66 cm), to top of frame
Seat height: 17 inches (43.18 cm)

Additional Details
Designer: Vladimir Kagan
Manufacturer: Directional
Design: Serpentine Sofa
Origin: United States
Materials: Upholstery, wood bases, Lucite supports
Authentication: Original Directional manufacturer's tags
Style: Mid-Century Modern, Organic Modern, American Modernism

Condition: Structurally sound; requires complete reupholstery See less