Pair of Art Deco Walnut & Holly Hunt Upholstery Lounge Chairs by Gilbert Rohde

Pair of Art Deco Walnut & Holly Hunt Upholstery Lounge Chairs by Gilbert Rohde

$12,475.00

This bold and refined pair of Art Deco Slipper/Lounge Chairs in Walnut and Holly Hunt Upholstery were created by the esteemed designer Gilbert Rohde and originate from the United States, Circa 1940. These sumptuous chairs feature curving geometric forms unified by beautifully designed and fashioned back joints and supports in walnut. The back features sophisticated button back detailing, which along with the seat is upholstered in a beautifully textured Holly Hunt Fabric. The fabric is from the Great Plains Series, entitled "On The Horizon" in Slate. A lovely mid-value range earth toned gray hue created by an optical mixture of warmer and cooler grays within the woven texture of the fabric. Gilbert Rohde was a pioneer of furniture design and craftsmanship, highly influential in modernizing numerous companies and casting a wide influence on designers of his time and movements since. These beautiful Art Deco Slipper Chairs will style brilliantly in a wide array of interiors and settings, from Art Deco to Mid-Century and Contemporary spaces. In Mint Restored Condition.

American, circa 1940

Dimensions:

Height: 29 in (73.66 cm) x Width: 34 in (86.36 cm) x Depth: 28 in (71.12 cm)

Seat Height: 16 in (40.64 cm)

Creator: Gilbert Rohde (Maker)

Sold As: Set of 2

Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques: Fabric, Walnut

Place of Origin: United States

Period: 1940-1949

Date of Manufacture: circa 1940

Condition: Excellent, Reupholstered. Refinished.

Reference Number: LU793436816672

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GILBERT ROHDE

Gilbert Rohde is a seminal figure in mid-century modern design, particularly noted for his influential work with Herman Miller. Rohde's designs, characterized by their earthy tones, gentle forms, and blend of Art Deco and Bauhaus influences, have left an indelible mark on modern furniture and interior design.

Born in New York, Rohde developed a passion for design in his father's workshop. After graduating from high school in 1913 and earning a degree from the Grand Central School of Art, a transformative trip to Europe in 1927 inspired his future projects. His career began to gain traction in 1929 when he showcased his work at the Newark exhibition "Modern American Design in Metal." His innovative use of materials and commitment to integrating art into everyday life quickly caught the public's eye.

Rohde's breakthrough came with his collaboration with Herman Miller, where he served as a design advisor. His designs were influenced by surrealism and international styles, incorporating natural patterns into furniture that was both cozy and detail-oriented. This approach set the standard for modernist style, making his work timeless yet bold.

Throughout his career, Rohde was driven by the desire to create furniture that was not only functional but also embodied America's national architectural and interior style. He envisioned mid-century modern design as the quintessential look for American homes—classic, cozy, and functional. His work often featured biomorphic forms, achieved by softening sharp edges and creating organic shapes in tables, chairs, and nightstands.

Rohde's influence extended beyond residential design to office spaces and public buildings, where his modular furniture lines became synonymous with flexibility and functionality. His designs were showcased in numerous exhibitions, including the "Design for Machine" exhibit in Philadelphia and the "Art and Industry" exhibit at Rockefeller Center. These exhibitions solidified his reputation as a leading figure in modernist design.

In the 1940s, Rohde's work evolved to include graphic design and packaging, most notably for brands like Crest toothpaste and Tide. He also developed Weldtex, a decorative plywood that became popular in the 1950s. Despite his passing in 1944, Rohde's legacy continued through his innovative designs and the lasting impact he had on Herman Miller, which later included the iconic work of George Nelson.

Rohde's designs experienced a resurgence in the 1990s, as interior designers and collectors rediscovered the timeless appeal of mid-century modernism. His work, characterized by its luscious colors, monumental scale, and bespoke quality, remains a staple in modern interior design. Museums worldwide, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art to the Victoria and Albert Museum, feature Rohde's pieces, cementing his place in design history.

Rohde's career was marked by a relentless pursuit of innovation and a deep understanding of the evolving needs of American households. His designs bridged the gap between Art Deco and mid-century modern styles, creating pieces that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Today, his work continues to inspire new generations of designers, ensuring that the legacy of Gilbert Rohde lives on in the world of interior design.