By Dom Hans van der Laan
Located in Utrecht, NL
This set of chairs was originally designed by the Dutch Benedictine monk and architect, Dom Hans van der Laan for the Abbey Church of St. Benedictusberg located near the Dutch town of Vaals.
These easy chairs are in an untouched condition. They are made of pine wood and feature copper nails, giving these pieces an understated, rustic look. The pair is entirely painted grey, including the nails. This specific colour was carefully selected by Whim van Hoof to resemble the original shade as closely as possible. The main focus of van der Laan’s design was functionality and rationality, which is reflected in the openings on the sides and on the backs serve the purpose of joining multiple pieces together, and lifting them.
Van der Laan was a leading figure in the traditionalist movement, the Bossche School, that held these values as well. These characteristics make these chairs charming, while also being beautiful pieces of Dutch design history. Although Dom Hans van der Laan left a small body of work behind, his legacy is highly regarded in the world of architecture. The St. Benedictusberg Abbey in Vaals and its interior quickly became his masterpiece at the age of 53. This model is still found in the Dutch church named Sint Willibrorduskerk in Almelo, for which it was possibly designed for in 1964.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks and scratches.
Dimensions:
25.59 in W, 26.77 in D, 35.43 in H; Seat Height 15.94 in
65 cm W, 68 cm D, 90 cm H; Seat Height 40.5 cm
About the designer:
Dom Hans van der Laan (1904-1991) was the ninth of the eleven recorded children of Leiden architect Leo van der...
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Dom Hans van der Laan Furniture
