Edward Wormley for Dunbar Alexandria Walnut Armchair

An exceptionally elegant Alexandria armchair designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, crafted in beautifully figured walnut with a black leather seat cushion. The chair is a particularly refined example of Wormley’s ability to combine the sophistication of traditional furniture with the fluid, simplified vocabulary of American modernism.

What immediately distinguishes the Alexandria chair is its extraordinary sculptural walnut frame. Viewed from the side, the arm rises from the front leg in one long, uninterrupted curve, gently dipping and sweeping upward toward the back. The rear legs echo this movement with their subtle outward flare, giving the chair a graceful, almost calligraphic profile. There are virtually no heavy or static elements—the entire structure feels light, fluid, and remarkably well balanced.

The arms continue upward to support a gently curved walnut backrest, which appears almost suspended between the slender uprights. The open space beneath the back emphasizes the architecture of the frame and allows the chair to remain visually light from every angle. It is particularly beautiful from the rear, where the exposed construction and rich walnut grain become part of the design.

A black leather cushion with button tufting provides a rich contrast against the warmth of the walnut. Its generous, rounded form softens the precise wooden framework and gives the otherwise delicate chair a sense of comfort and luxury.

The Alexandria chair demonstrates why Edward Wormley’s work for Dunbar occupies such an important position in postwar American design. Wormley was a modernist, but he was never restricted by the severe geometry associated with some of his contemporaries. His furniture frequently incorporated references to historical forms, exceptional cabinetmaking, luxurious materials, and graceful curves, creating pieces that were modern without sacrificing warmth or refinement.

This chair embodies that philosophy beautifully. Its slender proportions and sweeping arms have an almost classical elegance, while the open construction, floating backrest, and reduction of the frame to a series of flowing lines make it unmistakably modern.

Produced by Dunbar Furniture, whose exacting craftsmanship helped bring many of Wormley’s most celebrated designs to life, the Alexandria armchair is as much an exercise in woodworking and proportion as it is a functional piece of furniture.

A sophisticated and highly collectible example of vintage Edward Wormley furniture for Dunbar, equally compelling as an occasional chair, desk chair, or sculptural accent within a thoughtfully curated interior.

Designer: Edward Wormley
Manufacturer: Dunbar Furniture
Model: Alexandria Armchair
Country: United States
Period: Mid-Century Modern
Materials: Walnut, leather
Upholstery: Black leather button-tufted cushion

Dimensions: Height: 33 in x Width: 22.75 in x Depth: 24 in

Seat Height: 19.5 in