Set of 7 "SH41" Chairs by Yngve Ekström for AB Nässjö Stolfabrik, Sweden 1960s

Wood is the most traditional material for furniture, it is organic, elemental, sturdy, and has become very stylish. The Swedish efforts to create applied art attuned to modern man and his needs have been termed a style, Swedish Modern. Exemplified by these chairs by Swedish designer, Yngve Ekström, the style entails cherishing natural forms and an honest treatment of material.

While during the industrial revolution, furniture manufactured from materials such as steel, aluminium, glass and plastic, began to appear, wood has remained a staple material in Swedish furniture manufacturing. The design offers plenty visually with a striking construction and personality. The fan shaped backrests are composed of wooden spindles with a horizontal top with a soft curve that creates a wavy impression. While the masterfully sculpted and symmetrically arranged individual spindles undeniably define the overall look, the seats and legs are just as appealing, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood and the careful craftsmanship. The seats are carved ergonomically to accommodate the sitter, while the legs are splayed to provide stability. For further structural firmness, three stretchers connect the legs. The manufacturer, Nesto Möbel AB, formerly Nässjö Stolfabrik AB, was one of the largest furniture factories in the Nordics which operated from 1870-1992. In 1972, AB Nässjö Stolfabrik changed its name to Nesto Möbel AB.

“To have designed one good chair might not be a bad life’s work” Yngve Ekström once said. With colleagues like Aalto, Mathsson, Jacobsen and Kjaerholm, Yngve Ekström was part of the post-war modern movement that made the concept “Scandina­vian Modern” world-famous. His furniture is represented in many permanent collections, including the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:
17.51 in W x 20.27 in D x 33.07 in H; Seat height 17.32 in
44.5 cm W x 51.5 cm D x 84 cm H; Seat height 44 cm

About the designer:
Yngve Ekström was born in 1913 in Småland, where the country’s oldest wooden chair facto­ry was situated. His father died young and Ekström started working in joineries in Vaggeryd at the age of 13. His talent for carpentry and his all-round experience gave him a unique feeling for materials and construction.

Ekström is best known for the "Lamino" armchair, an ergonomic, and minimalist easy chair that he designed in 1956 and which has been in continuous production ever since. In 1999, the "Lamino" was named by the influential Swedish magazine Sköna hem as the Swedish furniture design of the twentieth century.

Ekström was the co-founder of the furniture manufacturer ESE-möbler (later renamed Swedese) with his brother Jerker and business partner Sven Bertil Sjöqvist. Ekström worked at Swedese for over 40 years until his death in 1988.

Shipping:
These dining chairs will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items 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.