Rare "Eared" Lounge Chair by Bengt Ruda for Artifort, The Netherlands 1960s

This cosy mid-century lounge chair by Bengt Ruda is an exceptional find, as this “eared” version is one of the designer’s rarest designs. The combination of the Swedish designer’s idea and the Dutch manufactory’s execution makes this model an iconic piece of 1960s seating.

Mid-Century Modern is a term that accommodates both the functional craftsmanship of the golden age of the movement, as well as the present-day appreciation of cosy, individual design. While without a doubt a difficult task, this lounge chair model manages to encapsulate both ideals. From the welcoming, open frame with the playful ear flaps to the cosy upholstery, Ruda’s design expresses a quality of cosiness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment. The distinctive shape is composed of curved shell seat with a great ergonomic design that supports the human body. The armrests are aligned with the “ears” and similarly curved outwards. This results in a dynamic, flowing look that is further enhanced by the upholstery. The soft velour highlights the cosy shapes and forms and allows the wooden lower structure to stand out against it. This is most apparent from the sides and the back, where the wooden legs tightly grip the fabric. The dark wood is an elegant pairing with the fully upholstered body, while the side stretchers and tapered construction assures structural firmness. Like Bengt Ruda, Artifort had a clear emphasis on functionality, comfort, and quality combined with aesthetically pleasing design and an innovative use of materials. Derived from the Latin word ‘ars’ meaning art or knowledge, and ‘fortis’ meaning strong or powerful, the word ‘comfort’ is also reflected in the brand’s name.

Artifort has been known for their “indestructible technique” applied to chair stringing, ensuring great quality and comfort. From how the frame engages with the body in a visually interesting way, without any visible joinery, to the playful ear flaps, this lounge chair is a piece of design history.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been recently reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:
29.52 in W x 35.43 in D x 39.37 in H; Seat height 16.53 in
75 cm W x 90 cm D x 100 cm H; Seat height 42 cm

About the designer:
Bengt Ruda (1918-1999) was a Swedish architect and furniture designer. He worked for Nordiska Kompaniet (NK) during the early 1950s and gained a name for himself thanks to his innovative modern furniture designs.

In 1956, he was approached by none other than IKEA founder Ingvar Kamprad, and accepted a position with the up-and-coming new company. The Swedish designer was the first properly qualified designer to join the company. Ruda was highly influenced by Italian designers, which is demonstrated by one of his first designs for IKEA. His easy chair, by the name “Cavelli” was designed in 1959 and was presented in the IKEA catalogues that year as a "modern aristocrat." Nowadays, it might be surprising to many that these early IKEA designs are valuable collectables.

Bengt Ruda remains well-known for his various chair designs for the manufacturing companies Nordiska Kompaniet and the Dutch Artifort. ~H.

Shipping:
This lounge chair will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU.