Artek - Alvar Aalto - Stuhl (2) - Modell 45 - Holz, Rattan

Beautiful set of 2 bentwood chairs, designed by Alvar Aalto for Artek

The Armchair 45 is a design from 1947 by, probably the most famous Finnish designer, Alvar Aalto. It is lightweight and embellished with details of natural materials.

The chairs have beautiful clear lacquered birch frames, natural webbing and rattan armrests. They can be used as dining chairs, desk chairs or lounge chairs.

Artek was founded in Helsinki in 1935 by four young idealists: Alvar and Aino Aalto, Maire Gullichsen, and Nils-Gustav Hahl. Their goal was “to sell furniture and to promote a modern culture of living by exhibitions and other educational means.” The name Artek is a synthesis of ‘art’ and ‘technology’ – concepts central to the international modernist movement that came to prominence in the 1920s.

Alvar Aalto (1898-1976) obtained a degree in Architecture from the Helsinki Institute of Technology and began his career as an architect. One of the most important works he was commissioned was the planning of the tuberculosis sanatorium in Paimio, Finland. This project also marked the beginning of Aalto's career as a furniture designer - in fact, this was the first building planned by Aalto to be completely furnished with furniture designed by Aalto himself - including the lighting. Other important projects completed by Alvar Aalto include the Viipuri Municipal Library, Villa Mairea, La Maison Carré and the Finnish Pavilions for the 1937 Paris and 1939 New York World Exhibitions.

The Armchair 45 was first presented to the public at the exhibition Arkkitehtien Aino ja Alvar Aallon töitä vuosilta 1922–1947, which was held in 1947 at the Helsinki Art Hall. Armchair 45 became one of Alvar Aalto's favorite chairs, and he also used it in his own studio.

This set of chairs is in good condition with slight signs of wear due to age. The color of the upholstery on one chair is slightly more faded than the other one.

The lots are available for pick-up (delivery options can be discussed with the successful bidder)