Sculptural Lounge Chairs by Nino Zoncada for Frimar, Italy 1950s

The postwar boom years of the 1950s through to the 1960s were one of the periods of greatest influence of Italian designers. Design in the 50s paved a way to a more aesthetical approach to products as opposed to its utilitarian predecessors, resulting in exceptional pieces like these lounge chairs.

Giovanni “Nino” Zoncada was an Italian furniture designer who worked extensively designing furniture and interiors for luxury ships. In the late 1940s, Zoncada collaborated with Gio Ponti in the interior design of the cruise liners Conte Biancamano and Conte Grande. Among his most famous furniture designs are these iconic and richly upholstered lounge chairs with relatively high and curved armrests. This pair of lounge chairs combines a luxurious dark velvet fabric with a solid wooden lower structure. These models also exists with a metal lower structure, but this version with the beautiful tapered legs is the more organic version reflecting traditional craftsmanship more. The resulting look expresses Italian modernism at its core, preserving the timeless elegance that has been defining the country’s design aesthetic. As Italian modern pieces, these chairs have a sculptural, “free” look dictated by the shape of the backs and arms. The characteristic shape of the arms sets the tone of the overall look, creating dynamism. The interesting angles are also present on the seats and backs, ensuring great sitting and lounging comfort. The lower wooden structures contrast beautifully with the rich texture of the upholstery, with the tapered shape highlighting the otherwise rounded edges. The result is a greatly balanced design that utilizes straight lines just as much as it does the curved ones.

From all angles, these lounge chairs offer beautiful textures and eye-catching forms, combining Italian elegance and modern aesthetics to create a timeless look which is full of modern energy that will endure for generations. This is also thanks to the exceptional visual quality and uncompromising level of craftsmanship.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some marks and scratches on the wooden legs. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a dark premium velvet fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Dimensions:
28.93 in W x 27.95 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat height 15.55 in; Arm height 21.25 in
73.5 cm W x 71 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 39.5 cm; Arm height 54 cm

Shipping:
These 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.