By Witco, William Westenhaver / Witco
Located in St. Louis, MO
Single Mid-Century Witco Tiki barstool - tribal sitting figure with carved face and original faux leopard upholstery designed by William Westenhaver. In nice original condition, no damage noted to wood. Upholstery shows wear.
In 1958, a small importing company named Western International Trading Co. was founded in Washington State. Tropical style had taken over the United States, and there were tropical-themed bars, restaurants and even bowling alleys nationwide.
Founders of Western International Trading Co (or Witco, as it’s more commonly known today) William Westenhaver, Robert Cookson and William’s cousin Robert Post Jr. started by importing art and mosaics from South and Central America, as well as paintings and sculptural art from lesser known American artists. But soon, William Westenhaver suggested they make their own tropical-inspired wood carvings. By the end of 1958, after a furniture and decor show in Los Angeles, the carved wood decor was a hit across the country.
The artists started carving, crafting and creating furnishings that represented the Post WWII ideal of the South Pacific and ‘tropical culture.’ Soon, Witco took off and became synonymous with the ‘luxurious’ Tropical / Hawaiiana / Tiki style. Witco reached the height of its popularity in the early to mid 1960s before shuttering a decade later.
Mid-Century ‘Tiki’ Chic:
After traveling through the Polynesian islands, a man named Donn Beach brought tropical flair and Polynesian culture to the states to create a one-of-a-kind experience. Beach started a restaurant and bar, called “Don the Beachcomber...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage William Westenhaver Stools
MaterialsUpholstery, Wood
