“Gamla Berlin” Easy Chair by Carl Malmsten, Sweden 1940s

This “Old Berlin” chair is among Swedish icon, Carl Malmsten’s rarer models. The dark wood, the beautiful upholstery, and Malmsten’s timeless design makes this model a beautiful representation of Sweden’s mid-century design history.

This model, like many of Malmsten’s “count chairs”, is a simplified version of the armchair “Jonas Love”, which Carl Malmsten designed for the New York World Fair in 1939. “Break all edges thoroughly”, was a frequent instruction on Carl Malmsten’s drawings and nature was his great source of inspiration, therefore sharp edges or corners can rarely be found on his designs, including this easy chair. With a tremendous sense of proportion, this chair is very comfortable and fulfil its task to “serve well” and last for lifetimes. This Gamla, or Old Berlin chair stands out for the way in which the upholstered seat leaves the back legs exposed, without any visible joinery. The wooden tapered legs further transcend into the back, holding the back in an elegant, light manner. The backseat has an interesting lightly scalloped top and long horizontal button tufting. The light bouclé upholstery gives an elegant look with its textured look and a cosy sitting experience thanks to its softness.

In 1937, Carl Malmsten designed a sofa for the Swedish diplomatic mission in Berlin. He named the sofa Berlin. Perhaps the idea of this easy chair came from the same mission. Up until the post-war era, his designs had been made at the school he started in 1930 and at a number of joinery workshops suited to artisanal production. He established contact with a group of high-quality small industries, the so-called Key Workshops. This chair, however, took form in one of his own Swedish workshops in the second half of the 1940s.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chair has been reupholstered recently in premium white bouclé fabric.

Dimensions:
24.8 in W x 29.92 in D x 29.92 in H; Seat height 15.74 in
63 cm W x 76 cm D x 76 cm H; Seat height 40 cm

Shipping:
This chair will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item 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.