"Rialto" Chairs by Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs for Puunveisto Oy, Finland 1950s

The “Rialto” easy chair is an exceptional model thanks to its amazing woven back. The design showcases the expertly calculated balance of functionality and form that defined the design of the 1950s in the Nordic countries. Finnish design icon, Carl Gustaf Hiort af Ornäs developed the model for his own furniture company, ‘Hiort Tuote Valmistaja Puunveisto Helsinki’, or ‘Hiort Product Manufacturer Puunveisto (woodcarver) Helsinki’.

The main design element is unquestionably the leather back that is expertly woven in a cross pattern, standing out against the light upholstered square shaped back cushions. The simple, geometric wooden frames crafted from high-quality wood have a minimalist and timeless elegance. The clean lines and precise angles are hallmarks of Nordic design, reflecting the region's affinity for functional beauty. In this chair model, the streamlined geometric lines of the wood are the perfect frame to showcase both the cushions and the gorgeous back. Hiort af Ornäs was particularly firm about two things regarding his chair designs: the sitting comfort and that the model must look good from every single angle. Much like the “Pedro” model, this pair of ”Rialto” easy chairs easily fulfils these principles, as even from the sides, the design showcases the expertly carved wooden structures and their lightly raised profiles. The removable seat and back cushions, framed by the open bodies, ensure the sitting comfort. The craftsmanship and quality of Hiort af Ornäs is very visible in this pair of easy chairs. This model was designed in 1955-56 and was already exhibited in Milano for the XIth Triennale in 1957, evidencing its then contemporary success.

The seating designs of the architect/designer have been gradually more and more recognized world-wide, which resulted in a recent exhibition titled “Forgotten Ornäs”. Form follows function is a principle of design associated with early and mid-20th century architecture and furniture design, stating that the shape of a building or object should primarily relate to its intended function or purpose. This was evidently an important principle for the designer, seen in the design of both the structure and aesthetic elements of these “Rialto” chairs.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. There is visible damage to the wood on one of the chairs' arms. The chairs have been reupholstered recently 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:
Chair 1:
25.59 in W x 29.33 in D x 27.95 in H (excluding cushion) or 29.72 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 15.74 in; Arm height 23.22 in
65 cm W x 74.5 cm D x 71 cm H (excluding cushion) or 75.5 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 40 cm; Arm height 59 cm

Chair 2:
25.59 in W x 29.52 in D x 27.95 in H (excluding cushion) or 29.92 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 22.04 in; Arm height 22.04 in, Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 23.22 in
65 cm W x 75 cm D x 71 cm H (excluding cushion) or 76 cm H (including cushion); Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 59 cm

Shipping:
The chairs will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items 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.