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.
Restored Art Deco Six-Strand Square Pretzel Six-Seat Sectional Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This beautifully restored coastal Art Deco six-strand square pretzel style, six-seat sectional sofa. This sofa features the famous six-strand square pretzel side arms and a stacked r...
Fabric, Rattan
Paul Frankl Pretzel 4 Seat Rattan Sofa.
By Paul Frankl
Located in Miami, FL
Paul Frankl Pretzel 4 seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa.
Bamboo, Rattan
Original Historic Hand Made 9 Strand Square Pretzel Rattan Sofa By Paul T Frankl
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Extremely rare, museum-quality nine-strand square pretzel square-back four-seat sofa was designed by Paul T. Frankl in 1934 using the highest-quality rattan poles and reeds available...
Wicker, Rattan
Original Historic Hand Made 4- Strand Square Pretzel Rattan Lounge & Sofa Set
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Scarce, museum-quality four-strand square pretzel square-back Lounge chairs and sofa set designed by Paul T. Frankl in 1934 using the highest-quality rattan poles and reeds available...
Rattan
$4,000Sale Price|33% Off
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...
Fabric, Bamboo, Foam
$6,000Sale Price|20% Off
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. Thi...
Bamboo
Paul Frankl Custom Sofa, 1940s, Pair Available
By Paul Frankl
Located in Amarillo, 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 ...
Silk, Oak
Paul Frankl Custom Sofa, Pair Available, 1940s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Amarillo, 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...
Silk, Wood
$4,800 / set
H 27 in W 66 in D 34 in
Vintage Ficks Reed Bamboo Rattan Tiki Sofa Set with Lounge Chairs - 3 Pc Set
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Ficks Reed Bamboo Rattan Tiki Sofa Set with Pair of Lounge Chairs, Unmarked - 3 Pc Set. Circa Mid 20th Century. Measurements: Sofa: 27" H x 66" W x ...
Wood
1930s Restored Art Deco Sofa, Czechoslovakia
Located in Praha, CZ
- Carrefully refurbished - Newly upholstered- walnut finish - can be used with or without pillows - Seat height with pillows is 48cm
Fabric, Wood
2-Strand Pretzel Shape Arm Rattan Lounge Chair
Located in Sheffield, MA
The 2 strand wicker/rattan club chair has rounded arm that comes with green and white wide striped canvas seat and back cushions. The side has pretzel shape x design. This lounge chair offers style and comfort for any porch or patio. The seat cushion has a wood frame at the bottom and metal support and springs, the way they used to make outdoor seat cushions...
Rattan
Restored 1940s Swedish Art Moderne “Banana Seat” Curved Loveseat Sofa
By Bröderna Anderssons 1
Located in Atlanta, GA
This newly restored and reupholstered curved sofa is a defining example of Swedish Art Moderne style, crafted circa 1945–1949 by the renowned Bröderna Andersson in Ekenässjön, Sweden...
Leather, Fabric, Elm
Restored Art Deco Sofa, Beech, Revived Polish, Czech, 1920s
Located in Brandys nad Labem, Středočeský kraj
This elegant Art Deco sofa originates from Czechoslovakia from the 1920s. It embodies the decorative elegance and comfort typical of this era. The sofas frame is crafted from solid ...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood, Beech, Lacquer
Art Deco Sofa Three Seat Sofa with Curved Form
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Sofa, fabric, beech, Europe, 1940s This sofa from the 1940s is a clear example of Art Deco design, combining strong proportions with subtle decorative detail. The curved arms and li...
Fabric, Beech
1950s Italian 2-Seater Sofa , Restored
Located in Praha, CZ
- Newly upholstered in Velvet fabric - Sturdy and stable
Fabric, Upholstery, Velvet
$5,566
H 33 in W 32 in D 36 in
Restored Rattan Six-Strand Square Pretzel Lounge Chair Paul Frankl Style
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This beautifully restored Paul Frankl-style six-strand rattan lounge chair features square pretzel arms and the classic stacked rattan base. The lounge blends style and vintage charm...
Wicker, Rattan
Streamline Art Deco Club Settee Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Outstanding 1940s Art Deco settee sofa. Original red knit upholstery in excellent condition without holes or damage. Very comfortable and solid.
Upholstery
Fantastic Restored Vintage Modern Rattan Three-Seat Sofa
Located in Atlanta, GA
This magnificent sofa is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: meticulously professionally restored and completely Installation Ready. Expert custom upholstery service is available. An exceptional vintage modern three-seat sofa, circa 1950. Stout, expertly crafted rattan frame construction. Beautiful design and detail. The matching pair of loungers...
Rattan
Art Deco Three-seater club sofa - France, 1930s
Located in London, GB
A sloping back, generous cushioning and curved armrests define this French 1930s Art Deco sofa. Newly reupholstered in a plush long-pile alpaca ...
Mohair
$3,990
H 31 in W 73 in D 32 in
Restored Mid-century Rattan 3-Strand Full Pretzel 3-Seat Sectional Sofa
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This beautifully restored rattan 3-strand full pretzel 3-piece sofa. Meticulously refurbished, its unique design offers a blend of retro charm and modern sophistication. Elevate your...
Fabric, Rattan
Paul Frankl 3-seater sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Hilversum, NL
This distinctive 3-seater rattan sofa was designed by Paul Frankl and is known for its striking, looped armrests reminiscent of a pretzel. The sturdy rattan frame and rounded shapes ...
Rattan
Paul Frankl 6 Band Rattan Pretzel Arm Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Highland, IN
A great example of Frankl's dynamic square "pretzel arm" design, this three seat sofa is beautiful from every angle. To us the one-piece construction and cohesive form is more pleasi...
Cane, Rattan
Mid 20th Century Vintage Coastal Paul Frankl 6 Strand Bent Rattan Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A fantastic vintage Coastal sofa. The iconic 6 strand bent rattan shape with three sections. In excellent condition. Acquired from a Palm Beach estate.
Rattan
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...
Bamboo
Vintage Coastal Paul Frankl Six Strand Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Incredible vintage Coastal rattan sofa. The iconic six strand design made by Paul Frankl. A full set of cushions included with the sofa. Matching pair of lounge chairs also available...
Rattan
Vintage Bamboo Lounge Set Paul Frankl, 1960s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Oirlo, LI
Why dream of sultry summer evenings, when you can enjoy the tropical atmosphere all year round with this lounge set. This beautiful set of two bamboo armchairs and a three-person ...
Bamboo
Sold
H 30 in W 86 in D 38 in
Piero Lissoni for Cassina Le Corbusier Sofa with Iconic Paul Frankl End Tables
By Piero Lissoni, Paul Frankl, Cassina
Located in West Hartford, CT
Rarely available Cassina three seat sofa with oatmeal fabric designed by renowned designer Piero Lissoni and coupled with Paul Frankl side tables ...
Steel, Chrome
Midcentury Paul Frankl Six Strand Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Fantastic vintage MCM six strand sofa. Made by the iconic Paul Frankl. Lacquered a pale grey and in great shape. Cushions are included. Acquired from a Palm...
Lacquer
Sold
H 36 in W 105 in D 39 in
Rare Museum Quality Restored Nine-Strand Square Pretzel Sofa by Paul Frankl
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Paul Frankl nine-strand square pretzel arm rattan sofa. This four-seat sofa dates from the 1934. This sofa comes directly for a Paul Frankl decorated house located in Los Angeles and...
Bamboo, Wicker, Rattan
Restored Paul Frankl Nine Strand Settee Loveseat
By Paul Frankl
Located in Rio Vista, CA
Amazing restored and updated nine strand settee or loveseat by Kosuga for Paul Frankl. Authentic Japanese steam-bent rattan frames with rare nine strand width arms. Midcentury redux ...
Fabric, Rattan
Square Pretzel Rattan Sectional Sofa by Paul Frankl
By Paul Frankl, Kosuga
Located in Rio Vista, CA
Midcentury square pretzel rattan sofa by Kosuga for Paul Frankl featuring a six-strand arm and four seats. made in Tokyo, Japan with authentic st...
Fabric, Rattan
Sold
H 32 in W 101 in D 36 in
Restored Square Pretzel Rattan Four-Seat Two-Piece Sectional Sofa by Paul Frankl
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Square pretzel rattan sectional sofa designed by Paul Frankl. This sofa features a stacked rattan base with six strand square pretzel arms and is divided into a two pieces making a f...
Rattan