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Early Eero Saarinen for Knoll Womb Chair & Ottoman in Chocolate Mohair

Creator: Eero Saarinen - Knoll
Offered by: Object Refinery

Description
Good design is often born from a desire to challenge the norm. In the late 1940s, friends and collaborators Florence Knoll and Eero Saarinen found themselves disillusioned by the rigid, uninspired nature of lounge seating at the time — and they sought a revolution. Knoll expressed to Saarinen her frustration at having to sit "properly," as traditional designs so often demanded. Saarinen, inspired by her complaint, set out to create a chair that would not only satisfy his friend’s request but also make a groundbreaking statement.

Saarinen recognized a fundamental human desire for primal comfort, leading him to envision a form with organic roots. Traditional furniture-making techniques, however, could not achieve the form he imagined. Together, Knoll and Saarinen turned to emerging technologies in cast fiberglass and resin, practically redefining what a chair could be. Saarinen called this new creation Model 70 — though it would soon be universally known as "The Womb": a chair where Florence Knoll, and millions after her, could sit freely, comfortably, and in any position they wished, enveloped in a cocoon of comfort true to its name.

Knoll continues to handcraft the Womb Chair in keeping with Eero Saarinen’s original vision and specifications. This particular example is an early production model, dated 1965 on its fiberglass shell. Our team has meticulously restored both the chair and ottoman, upholstering them in a luxurious Angora Mohair in a deep Chocolate tone. The mohair’s rich texture pairs beautifully with the original black enameled frame, which remains in very good condition with only minor wear consistent with age. A true icon of modern design, this Womb Chair has been thoughtfully preserved and restored, ready to offer comfort and style just as Florence and Eero intended.

Chair: 40"W x 34"D x 37"H, 16"SH
Ottoman: 25"W x 20"D x 16"H

More Information

Documentation:	Makers Label/Invoice
Origin:	United States
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Angora Mohair in Chocolate & Black Enameled Steel
Condition:	Good. New restoration by Object Refinery. Minor wear consistent with age and history may still be present.
Number of Pieces:	2-3
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Incollect Reference #:	813484

Dimensions

W.	40 in;	H.	37 in;	D.	54 in;
W.	101.6 cm;	H.	93.98 cm;	D.	137.16 cm;

Message from Seller:

Stories exist in many forms, we see them in objects. The aesthetic of those before us is passed down through their surviving creations. These are the objects we search for; to preserve, refine, & continue the story. Object Refinery combines design obsession, fine craftsmanship, and a love for history in our worldwide search for objects. Based in Connecticut, USA; we partner with a network of local artisans to restore and refine our findings before passing them on to the next collector.