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Early Jens Risom for Knoll Model 23 Armless Sofa in Plush Italian Velvet

Creator: Knoll -Jens Risom
Offered by: Object Refinery

Description
With great reason, the name Jens Risom is synonymous with the Mid-Century Modern design movement, his original body of work is not only still with us today but much of it is still in production. Hailing from Denmark, Risom’s talent quickly resonated with the great Hans Knoll after emigrating to the United States. It is without surprise that the duo quickly took to collaboration, together they launched the Hans Knoll Furniture Company in 1942 with 15-20 pieces of Risom design.

This “Model 23” Armless Sofa is an example from this very early Risom Knoll collection and dates circa late 1940’s. In this sofa the Danish aesthetic is quite present, while modernized with a bit of American influence. The use of button tufts, dramatic pitch, and the almost “humanist” rounded form are all examples of Risom’s Danish background showing through. This early work is a delightful look at the marriage of Danish sensibility with the then-American pursuit of simplicity at home.

The Object Refinery team has completely restored this Jens Risom Sofa resulting in an excellent preservation of an early Knoll design. We’ve imported a gorgeous plush Italian Velvet in the color Espresso for use in this restoration which accentuates the subtle curves in this design wonderfully. We lovingly refer to this material as “Teddy Bear Velvet” as it is unbelievably soft to the touch, best experienced in person. The Maple base has also been refinished in a handsome dark brown which perfectly complements the upholstery. There is a pair of “Model 21” Jens Risom for Knoll Slipper Chairs available as well which have been restored to match this sofa, please see our separate listing.

More Information

Documentation:	Makers Label/Invoice
Origin:	United States
Period:	1920-1949
Materials:	Plush Italian Velvet in Espresso & Stained Maple
Condition:	Good. Excellent. Minor wear consistent with age and history
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Incollect Reference #:	629622

Dimensions

W.	73 in;	H.	31 in;	D.	32 in;
W.	185.42 cm;	H.	78.74 cm;	D.	81.28 cm;

Seat H.	16 in;
Seat H.	40.64 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.