Pair of Mid Century Documented Walnut "Barrel" Chairs by Vladimir Kagan, 1947
Pair of Mid Century Documented Walnut "Barrel" Chairs by Vladimir Kagan, 1947
This sculptural and iconic pair of low back "Barrel" chairs were designed and executed by Vladimir Kagan, in 1947. They feature amorphic arms; subtly scalloped tops; and splayed conical legs in hand rubbed walnut. Subtly dynamic and full of verve, these chairs reflect the enduring appeal of Kagan's designs, retaining "that potency and flair that is new and fresh" (in Kagan collector/fashion designer Tom Ford's words) after all these decades. They have been newly reupholstered in a luxurious hand-woven daybreak Holly Hunt Great Plains fabric. With their clean modernist lines and neutral palate, this piece would be a winning addition to any style of interior from Classic Mid-Century Modern to contemporary. They have been newly reupholstered and are in mint restored condition. The chairs are documented on page 57 of "Vladimir Kagan: A Lifetime of Avant Garde Design.
American, 1947
Dimensions:
Height: 30.5 in (77.47 cm) x Width: 28 in (71.12 cm) x Depth: 30.5 in (77.47 cm)
Seat Height: 18 in (45.72 cm)
Creator: Vladimir Kagan (Maker)
Sold As: Set of 2
Style: Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Fabric, Walnut
Place of Origin: United States
Period: 1940-1949
Date of Manufacture: circa 1947
Condition: Excellent. Refinished. Reupholstered.
Reference Number: LU793438916382
VLADIMIR KAGAN
Vladimir Kagan, born on August 29, 1927, in Worms, Germany, is celebrated as a pivotal figure in modern furniture design. His creative journey began upon his arrival in the United States in 1938, driven by a burgeoning interest in painting, sculpture, and later, architecture and design. He studied architecture at Columbia University before joining his father, a master cabinetmaker, to hone his skills in furniture making starting in 1947.
Kagan’s career took off when he opened his first studio on East 65th Street in New York in 1949, later moving to the more fashionable 57th Street in 1950. He quickly became known for his innovative sculptural furniture, which reshaped American design aesthetics in the mid-20th century. His work caught the attention of an array of high-profile clients, including Marilyn Monroe, Gary Cooper, and corporations like Walt Disney and General Motors.
Throughout his career, Kagan's designs have been widely acclaimed and collected. His pieces are featured in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions such as the V&A Museum in London, the Vitra Design Museum in Germany, and various prominent museums across the United States.
Kagan's unique approach melded form with function, introducing organic shapes and integrating advanced materials that characterized the Modernity movement. His designs from the forties, fifties, and sixties became icons, influencing generations of designers.
In 2009, Kagan was inducted into the Interior Designer Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring influence on the design world. He also received numerous accolades for his contributions to furniture design, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Society of Furniture Designers.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Kagan was married to Erica Wilson, a renowned needlework designer. They shared three children and split their time between New York and Nantucket. His legacy extends beyond his designs, having served as a chairman and member on various educational and professional boards, and having taught extensively on the history of modern design.
Vladimir Kagan passed away on April 7, 2016, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire both contemporary designers and admirers of classic modern furniture. His autobiography, “The Complete Kagan,” offers insight into the life and work of this influential designer, cementing his role as a key figure in shaping modern American design.
