Pair Of Tubular Steel Chairs In The Manner Of Thonet

Pair Of Tubular Steel Chairs In The Manner Of Thonet

A refined pair of Modernist tubular steel occasional chairs, crafted in the influential style of Michael Thonet, encapsulating the early 20th-century shift towards functional design. Channeling Continental innovation, these chairs offer an elegant yet practical statement for contemporary interiors.

Origin: Austria/France

Date: Circa 1900

Material: Tubular steel with leather upholstery

Dimensions: Height: 90 cm (35.5 in); Height of seat: 46 cm (18 in); Width: 40 cm (15.7 in); Depth: 40 cm (15.7 in)

Condition: Excellent early 20th-century condition with recent leather upholstery

Rooted in the revolutionary essence of Modernism, these dining room chairs signal a departure from ornate traditions, embracing the clarity and utility that defined the era. Modelled after the pioneering work of Michael Thonet—renowned for his mastery of bentwood furniture—this pair reflects both the industrial spirit and sophisticated restraint at the turn of the century. Chairs in the Thonet manner are celebrated in leading museum collections, signifying their enduring appeal among discerning collectors and interior decorators alike.

Notable Features:

• Superior craftsmanship is evident in the seamless bends and joins of the tubular steel frames, achieving a sculptural yet robust form.
• The understated design, free from superfluous ornamentation, embodies the Modernist belief in "form follows function", setting these chairs apart from more flamboyant pre-war furniture.
• The rare marriage of authentic early 20th-century construction and sympathetic modern upholstery increases the collecting value; examples of this calibre in such fine condition are especially desirable.
• Practical as well as decorative, these chairs suit contemporary kitchen and dining rooms, or may serve as focal points in a modern design collection.

This pair of kitchen and dining room chairs in the manner of Thonet offers an opportunity to acquire a slice of design history. The striking use of tubular steel—innovative for its time—ensures strength while maintaining a visually light profile. Combined with sumptuous leather seats, they deliver both comfort and style. Whether furnishing a modern home or expanding a curated furniture collection, these chairs promise enduring sophistication and timeless Modernist flair.