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Paul Frankl Seating

Austrian, American, 1886-1958

Born in Vienna, Paul Frankl came to the United States in 1914 as part of a wave of Central European design luminaries — among them Kem Weber, Rudolph Schindler, and Richard Neutra — who were drawn by the energy and optimism of the American scene. Prolific and protean, Frankl would go on to design furnishings that are emblematic of nearly every key stylistic chord in American modernism, from the streamlined Art Deco to free-form organic shapes.

Frankl's Skyscraper cabinets, bookcases and more — introduced in 1924 — are his earliest and best-known designs (and the work by which he is most often represented in institutions, such as New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art). Tall and narrow, the pieces have staggered shelves meant to mimic the setbacks of Manhattan office towers. A later visually expressive line — the Speed chairs and sofas, which have a raked profile suggesting motion — links Frankl to Donald Deskey, Raymond Loewy and other creators of Streamline Moderne design.

Frankl moved to Los Angeles in 1934 and luxuriated in the climate and lifestyle. His designs became lighter and simpler and found an audience among the Hollywood élite. (Katharine Hepburn, Cary Grant and Fred Astaire were clients.) Fascinated by Asian arts, Frankl produced numerous pieces — tabletops with edges that curve upward; sofas, chairs and other seating with rattan frames — inspired by Chinese and Japanese forms and materials. In the 1940s, Frankl became one of the first designers to incorporate free-form, biomorphic shapes in his work, as well as novel upholstery fabrics such as denim and nubby wool.

Frankl biographer Christopher Long argues that the designer’s easy, elegant aesthetic had an enormous influence on movie set design. As the furniture below attests, Paul Frankl’s work is ready for its close-up.

Find vintage Paul Frankl tables, dining chairs, case pieces and storage cabinets on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Paul Frankl
6 Paul Frankl Corset Dining Chairs for Johnson Bros. Furniture
By Paul Frankl
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A set of six Corset or V Back dining chairs including two head arm chairs and six side chairs . These very well crafted chairs are upholstered in the original tortoise shell styled l...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Midcentury Adjustable Lounge Chair by Paul Frankl 1950 '
By Paul Frankl
Located in Rome, IT
Original Mid-Century Modern reclinable Bamboo and Rattan three -stand lounge chair features stylized pretzel arms. It has a wonderful design with a classic look. Providing comfort a...
Category

1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Iron

Paul Frankl Dining Chairs for Brown Saltman 3 Available Sold in Singles
By Paul Frankl, Brown Saltman
Located in San Diego, CA
Step into the realm of timeless sophistication with our collection of iconic Crisscross "X" Dining Chairs, designed by the legendary Paul Frankl for the esteemed Brown Saltman group ...
Category

20th Century American Art Deco Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Set of 14 Paul Frankl Corset Oak Dining Chairs for Brown Saltman in Latte Bouclé
By Paul Frankl
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Sultry large set of 14 Oak Corset Dining Chairs designed by Paul Frankl and produced by Brown Saltman newly professionally restored and refinished in original stain with new cushions...
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bouclé, Upholstery, Oak

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand Club Chairs with Ottomans, Set of 4
By Paul Frankl
Located in Miami, FL
Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand Club Chairs with Ottomans, Set of 4 Offered for sale are 2 pairs of iconic Paul Frankl 6-strand Pretzel club chairs with...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Rattan, Foam

Paul Frankl Art Deco Speed Sectional Sofa, circa 1940
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Original Art Deco speed sectional sofa designed by Paul Frankl. The sofa is broken down into two sections that come together to make a very large love s...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Paul Frankl Set of 14 Dining Chairs in Bleached Mahogany & Latte Bouclé c. 1950
By Paul Frankl
Located in Saint Louis, MO
A most special and large iconic set of Mid Century Modern Dining Chairs designed by one of the most beloved of all Paul Frankl fully restored from top to bottom with newly refinished bleached mahogany frames and new cushions and latte bouclé upholstery. Our shop has carried several Paul Frankl dining sets...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Mahogany, Bouclé, Upholstery

Restored Single-Strand Two-Position Rattan Chaise Lounge
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Restored single-strand rattan chaise lounge chair which rocks into two fixed positions for extra comfort, includes new cushions. Custom cushions are included in the price, simply supply the fabric and we have the cushions made for you. If you need help...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Rattan

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand 3-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Miami, FL
Paul Frankl Pretzel Six strand 3-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa Offered for sale is a Paul Frankl six-strand three-seat bamboo and rattan sofa with loose seat...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo, Foam

Paul Frankl, Johnson Furniture, Station Wagon Bench, Rock Maple, Fabric, 1950s
By Paul Frankl, Johnson Furniture Company
Located in Stamford, CT
Rare Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl / John Stuart Storage Ottoman, Footstool Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture Co. and retailed by John Stuart. Branded Johnson Furniture Co. and lab...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Mahogany

Paul Frankl Rattan Chair
By Paul Frankl
Located in BREDA, NL
Vintage lounge chair by Paul Frank. This rattan chair is in mint condition. The seats are upholstered in a curry colour fabric and make this summery sofa ...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Rattan, Fabric

Swivel Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Paul T. Frankl, 1940s. Gray Mohair Upholstery
By Paul Frankl
Located in Kansas City, MO
Beautiful Swivel Lounge Chair and ottoman designed by the most important American Art Deco designer, Paul Frankl. Expertly reupholstered in grey mohair. Very comfortable and would ...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wrought Iron

Set of Six Paul Frankl for Johnson "Corset" Dining Chairs
By Johnson Furniture Co., Paul Frankl
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautiful set of six Paul Frankl dining chairs for Johnson Furniture. The chairs frames are made of cerused oak and are very sturdy and comfortable. Measures: 32 inches H x 23 in...
Category

1940s American Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Paul Frankl Set of 4 Plunging Neckline Dining/Game Chairs 1950s
By Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
Set of 4 "Plunging Neckline" dining/game chairs by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture, American 1950's. Refinished and newly upholstered in white leather. These chairs are both very ...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Leather, Wood

Six Paul Frankl Dining Chairs for Johnson, Mahogany Criss Cross Lattice Backs
By Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl
Located in Kansas City, MO
Set of 6 dining chairs, two armchairs and four side chairs, designed by Paul Frankl and made by Johnson Furniture Co., 1950s. This set has the original dark mahogany finish in very g...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

Paul Frankl Set of 6 Oak X- Back Dining chairs 1950s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A beautiful set of 6 upholstered Paul Frankl X-Back dining chairs with oak frames 1950s. This set includes 2 captain’s chairs and 4 side chairs.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Foam, Oak

Six Corset Dining Chairs by Paul Frankl in Grey Wool
By Paul Frankl
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A true Mid Century set of Paul Frankl Corset Dining room Chairs. The "V" back is very sexy and sophisticated - reminiscent of a corset or a tuxedo - elegant and uptown. The set has...
Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wool, Upholstery, Wood, Tulipwood

1940s Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman Dining Chair, Set of Seven
By Paul Frankl, Brown Saltman
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Set of lattice-back dining chairs by Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman group. The chairs upholstered in high quality blue cotton fabric. The set includes seven captain's chairs. North...
Category

1950s Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Set of Two Armchair by Paul Frankl, Dal Vera
By Paul Frankl
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The set of 2 bamboo armchairs designed by Paul Frankl is a captivating combination of natural beauty and modern design. Crafted with sustainable bam...
Category

1960s Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bamboo

Bamboo Sofa by Paul Frankl, Dal Vera
By Paul Frankl
Located in Milano, Lombardia
A bamboo sofa designed by Paul Frankl is a captivating combination of natural beauty and modern design. Crafted with sustainable bamboo, these pieces exude an air of organic elegance while showcasing Frankl's signature sleek lines and innovative approach. The bamboo armchairs feature a graceful silhouette with gently curved armrests and a comfortable seating area, providing both style and comfort. The bamboo sofa continues the theme, offering generous seating space and a refined aesthetic that effortlessly blends into any interior. Paul Frankl's bamboo furniture collection is not only visually appealing but also environmentally conscious. Bamboo's sustainable nature makes it an eco-friendly choice, perfect for those seeking both style and a greener lifestyle. Embrace the allure of nature with this timeless set, where Paul Frankl's expertise in modern design meets the timeless beauty of bamboo, creating an inviting and sustainable seating...
Category

1960s Italian Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bamboo

Set of 2 Armchair and a Sofa by Paul Frankl, Dal Vera
By Paul Frankl
Located in Milano, Lombardia
The set of 2 bamboo armchairs and bamboo sofa designed by Paul Frankl is a captivating combination of natural beauty and modern design. Crafted with...
Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bamboo

Paul Frankl Dining Chairs for Brown Saltman, Set of 10
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Set of dining chairs by Paul Frankl for the Brown Saltman group. The chairs are upholstered in high quality blue cotton fabric with a unique crisscross "X" chair back. Great example ...
Category

1950s Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Set of 8 Paul Frankl Continental Ebonized & Upholstered "Skyscraper" Side Chairs
By Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
SET of 8 Continental Art Deco (1929) \"Skyscraper\" dining / side chairs with reeded carved black lacquered curving wooden frames, upholstered in a beige and gold geometric patterned...
Category

20th Century Biedermeier Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Lacquer, Fabric, Upholstery, Wood

Paul Frankl Armchair for John Stuart
By John Stuart, Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl
Located in Brooklyn, NY
For your consideration is this rare model 2254 ½ armchair designed by Paul Frankl in all-original, unrestored condition. It features a sculptural solid wood frame with delicate curve...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Art Deco Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture Mahogany and Cork Dining 9 Piece Set
By Johnson Furniture Co., Paul Frankl
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Deco Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture mahogany and cork dining set - 9 piece set. An exquisite, iconic and truly timeless and unparalleled classic dining set...
Category

1940s American Art Deco Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Mahogany, Cork

Mid-Century Paul Frankl Rattan Chaise Pretzel Arms Lounge Chair with Ottoman
By Paul Frankl
Located in Bay City, MI
This five-strand rattan lounge chair features stylized pretzel arms with a matching fitted ottoman is in good vintage condition. It has a wonderful design with a classic look. Provid...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Rattan

Paul Frankl Corset Dining Chairs for Johnson, Set of 8
By Paul Frankl
Located in Chicago, IL
Rare opportunity to acquire this stunning set of Paul Frankl Corset dining chairs by Johnson Furniture Co. The set includes 2 arm chairs and 6 sid...
Category

20th Century North American Art Deco Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Mahogany

Paul Frankl Custom Dining Table
By Paul Frankl
Located in Chicago, IL
Paul Frankl custom dining table, designed for a project in La Jolla, California 1930c. Sold with two 24-inch leaves when both are inserted the tabl...
Category

1930s American Art Deco Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Glass, Wood, Cork

Pair of Armchairs + Table in Rattan Bamboo Design Paul Frankl, 1940s
By Paul Frankl
Located in taranto, IT
splendid and very rare pair of rattan armchairs, production and design by paul Frankl, originals from the 1940s, complete with coffee table they measure 82 cm in height, 72 cm in ...
Category

1940s Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bamboo

Paul Frankl Speed Sofa in Gray Boucle, 1932
By Paul Frankl
Located in Chicago, IL
Paul Frankl Speed Sectional 2 piece sofa in Gray Boucle, 1932.
Category

1930s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bouclé

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand 4-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Pasadena, TX
Paul Frankl Pretzel 4-seat rattan bamboo sofa. Rare 4 seat version this classic design. Pretzel rattan sectional sofa designed by Paul Frankl. T...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Bamboo

Pair of Paul Frankl Corset Side Chairs
By Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
Pair of Paul Frankl for Johnson Company Corset side chairs with new upholstery. Iconic design also known as V back chairs. Wood is in original condition ...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman Dining Chair, Set of Four
By Paul Frankl, Brown Saltman
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Set of lattice-back dining chairs by Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman group. The chairs upholstered in high quality blue cotton fabric. The set include...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Pair of Paul Frankl for Johnson Corset Side Dining Chairs
By Paul Frankl
Located in St. Louis, MO
Pair of Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture Co. Corset side or dining chairs also know as plunging neckline or "V" back chairs. Chairs are in need of re-upholstery, price includes refi...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Asian-Inspired Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture Cork Top Bench or Low Table
By Paul Frankl
Located in San Francisco, CA
An Asian-inspired midcentury Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture cork top bench or low table with open wood supports; the elegantly long rectangular cork top with flared ends raised on...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Cork

Pair of Armchairs by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture
By Paul Frankl, Johnson Furniture Company
Located in Hudson, NY
Set of two armchairs mahogany stain wood and new upholstery design by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture.
Category

1950s American Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Wood

Restored "Triple Triangle" Open Air Pretzel Single Arm Lounge Chair
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Rare "Triple Triangle" arm rattan lounge chair featuring arch looped base and the unique open-air single arm design. Measures: Sofa: 33 in. H x 73 in. W x 36 in. D. We only purchas...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Rattan

Pair of Midcentury Paul Frankl Chairs in Cerused Oak
By Paul Frankl
Located in Pasadena, CA
Handsome, masculine pair of midcentury Paul Frankl chairs in cerused oak. Chairs have been newly refinished and reupholstered in a garnet color velvet.
Category

1970s American Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Oak, Velvet

Paul Frankl Custom Sofa, Pair Available, 1940s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Houston, TX
Paul Frankl sofa, matched pair available. USA, circa 1944. From an important estate. Silk over oak frame. Measures: 88 W x 27 D x 33 H in. 224 W x...
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Silk, Wood

Paul Frankl Custom Sofa, 1940s, Pair Available
By Paul Frankl
Located in Houston, TX
Paul Frankl sofa, matched pair available, USA, circa 1944. From an important estate. Silk over oak frame. Measure: 88 W x 27 D x 33 H in. 224 W x ...
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Silk, Oak

Open Armchair by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture
By Johnson Furniture Co., Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
Dark stained mahogany frame with modernist lines and open arms. Cut-out, plunging neckline to upholstered seat back. Up to four of these armchairs are available.
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Paul Frankl, Slipper Chairs, Bamboo, Fabric, USA, 1952
By Ficks Reed, Paul Frankl
Located in High Point, NC
A pair of green velvet and bamboo slipper chairs designed by Paul Frankl and produced by Ficks Reed, USA, 1952. Seat height 14.25
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo

Paul Frankl Low Cork Table
By Johnson Furniture Co., Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
Asian-inspired form with cork-wrapped top above dark-stained mahogany base. This piece is designed by Paul Frankl for Johnson furniture company from the post war period.
Category

1940s American Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Mahogany, Cork

Pair of White Rattan Sofa Frames by Paul Frankl
By Paul Frankl
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Pair of white Rattan sofa Frames by Paul Frankl, complete with vintage cushions. Each with six strand square pretzel side arms and stacked rattan ba...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Upholstery, Rattan

Set of 8 Paul Frankl Dining Chairs in Zebra Cut Velvet with Gold Brocade c. 1950
By Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Mid-Century Modern enthusiasts and designers will appreciate this rare set of eight dining chairs designed by Paul Frankl for his 1950s Tambour Dining Room Collection produced by Johnson Furniture. The only set available globally and perhaps the rarest of his offerings. Fully documented in Johnson Furniture's period brochure devoted exclusively to Paul Frankl’s designs. Admirers of Paul Frankl's work will recognize these chairs' similarities to Frankl's Corset Dining Chairs...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul Frankl Seating

Materials

Velvet, Walnut

Paul Frankl seating for sale on 1stDibs.

Paul Frankl seating are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Paul Frankl seating, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original seating by Paul Frankl were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider seating by Tommi Parzinger, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Planner Group. Prices for Paul Frankl seating can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,200 and can go as high as $64,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $7,850.

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