Barcelona Chairs in Leather & Stainless Steel by Mies van der Rohe for Knoll

It is often said that modern design is timeless, this is unequivocally true with the Barcelona Chair, possibly one of the most iconic pieces of design in existence. Its designer, the great Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, could very well be known as one of the founding fathers of the Mid-Century Modern design movement. His work is deeply rooted in the Bauhaus from which his Barcelona design came to be. Only Mies van der Rohe, with his sage-like mastery of minimalism, could have consistently produced work still relevant to this very day. Originally designed in 1929 for the German Pavilion in Barcelona’s International Exposition, Mies’ intent was to “harmonize old and new in our civilization”. Drawing inspiration from the campaign chairs of Ancient Rome, Mies used then-modern fabrication techniques and materials to craft what has become the icon of minimalist design.

In this set we have a pair of Barcelona Chairs and one Ottoman all in matching original leather in the color Cognac. The upholstery on each chair is crafted from 40 individual panels, sewn together with Mies’ iconic welt and button tuft detail. All leather hides are hand selected to ensure a perfect match in color and texture, such is true with this set. These chairs feature highly desirable polished stainless steel frames which is no longer a readily available option but a special order item due to the complex fabrication process. Polished stainless steel is far superior to Knoll’s current standard of chromed steel as it is not a coated finish, but a solid metal mirror polished which cannot chip like chrome plate.

This set is in exceptional condition considering its age showing only minor wear. There are no rips or tears to the original leather and no deep gouges to the solid stainless steel frames. The foam in each cushion remains completely intact and supportive. Aside from a very light, attractive patina throughout, this set appears to be in near-new condition. Rarely does a multi-piece vintage set of the Barcelona design come to market in the desirable stainless steel, a handsome color, and in remarkable condition.

Chairs: 29.5”W x 30”D x 30.25"H | 17"SH
Ottoman: 25"W x 23.25"D x 14.75"H