Early Norman Cherner Dining Arm Chairs in Walnut, Set of 4

The Mid-Century design movement revolutionized furniture by embracing mass production and innovation. Pioneering new materials, such as molded plywood, designers like Charles and Ray Eames transformed accessibility without compromising on quality. Among these trailblazers was Norman Cherner, whose iconic work with Plycraft became a defining moment in design history.

Cherner’s journey with Plycraft began with controversy. Initially, Plycraft rejected his molded plywood chair design, only to later produce it under the fictitious name "Bernardo." These unauthorized versions, labeled “Designed by Bernardo for Plycraft,” lacked Cherner's rightful credit. However, Cherner sought justice, ultimately winning legal recognition. Plycraft then reintroduced the chair under his name, immortalizing his contribution to the movement.

This set of four Cherner Dining Chairs with Arms embodies this fascinating narrative. Crafted in the 1950s, the set includes two "Bernardo" era chairs and two credited to Cherner, featuring slight design refinements. Originating from the same estate, these chairs collectively tell a compelling story of innovation and the pursuit of artistic acknowledgment. Our team meticulously restored each chair in the set, addressing veneer losses and refinishing the walnut to highlight its stunning grain. This restoration ensures their preservation for another lifetime of use, celebrating both their timeless design and the legacy of Norman Cherner.