Items Similar to Willy Guhl for Eternit Modernist Concrete Garden Chairs Switzerland 1974, Signed

Willy Guhl for Eternit 'Diablo' Concrete Hourglass Planters, c 1968

Willy Guhl for Eternit Cone Concrete Planter in Burgundy, circa 1968, Signed

Large 'Handkerchief' Concrete Planters by Willy Guhl for Eternit, c. 1968

Large 37" Willy Guhl for Eternit 'Diablo' Concrete Hourglass Planters, c 1968

Monumental 38" Willy Guhl for Eternit 'Diablo' Concrete Spindle Planter, c 1968

Want more images or videos?

Request additional images or videos from the seller

1 of 10

Willy Guhl for Eternit Modernist Concrete Garden Chairs Switzerland 1974, Signed

About the Item

Introducing an extraordinary trio of Modernist concrete garden chairs with the accompanying table by the renowned Willy Guhl for Eternit. These pieces proudly bear the distinct Eternit number embossed stamp, originating from 1974 Switzerland. As evident in the photographs, we've preserved their authentic state, showcasing a captivating patina. These exceptional collector's pieces not only exhibit a robust structure without any underlying issues, but also feature an exquisite patina characteristic of an original Willy Guhl creation. Offering a refreshing alternative to the widely recognized Loop chair, these rare garden lounge chairs seamlessly blend elements of Modernist, Bauhaus, and Brutalist design. They're equally at ease in Post-Modern interiors. For interior designers and modern design aficionados, securing this rare set of signed Guhl concrete patio chairs is a unique opportunity. This trio of Willy Guhl concrete armchairs finds their place harmoniously in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern, or Danish Modern residences, as well as penthouse apartments. They're equally striking in Contemporary or Post-Modern settings. Consider them as a focal point in Traditional, Transitional, Classical, or Art Deco spaces, adding an intriguing contrast. Furthermore, they're a fitting choice for commercial spaces like hotel lobby lounges, members' clubs, creative design studios, or high-rise executive office patios. This set encompasses three chairs and a table, each bearing the distinct marks of time and use, enriched by a beautiful patina. While we're pleased to offer a thorough cleaning upon request, it would be a genuine loss to remove this unique and captivating patina, which contributes to the allure and history of these exceptional pieces.

Creator:
Eternit (Manufacturer),Willy Guhl (Designer)
Design:
Loop Chair
Dimensions:
Height: 26.78 in (68 cm)Width: 28.75 in (73 cm)Depth: 21.66 in (55 cm)Seat Height: 14.97 in (38 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 4
Style:
Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Concrete,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Switzerland
Period:
1970-1979
Date of Manufacture:
1974
Condition:
Additions or alterations made to the original: Small crack sealed on the inside, no structural losses and in perfect sturdy condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor structural damages.
Seller Location:
Mortsel, BE
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU8676236829422
View Invoice

Shop All Willy Guhl

Willy Guhl

Decades prior to the mass popularity of neo-industrial cement floors and furniture taking shape, there was Willy Guhl. The Swiss creative is considered one of the first “industrial” designers in his home country. He pioneered a rugged, organic style of modern furniture and decor — stylish planters, shapely seating and lots more — that remains widely coveted by many today.

Guhl was born in 1915 in Stein am Rhein and worked as a carpenter before beginning studies at the Zurich School of Applied Arts (known today as the Zurich University of the Arts), where he would go on to teach for nearly 40 years.

While Guhl is well-known for his range of provocative garden elements as well as his patio and outdoor furniture, today’s legion of mid-century modern enthusiasts are likely familiar with the designer’s iconic Loop chair (introduced in 1954). For this sculptural seat and other furnishings, Guhl tended toward industrial materials, which he bent and shaped into organic forms for a striking juxtaposition. Much of his work is crafted from either concrete or Eternit, a mixture of cement and asbestos developed by the Belgian company Etex, which, in the 1950s, commissioned Guhl and his students at the School of Applied Arts to conceive planters in the material. The resulting vessels — some hourglass-shaped, some in the form of handkerchiefs, all suitable for indoors or exteriors — remain some of Guhl’s most collectible pieces.

Guhl’s affiliation with the Swiss “neo-functional” movement centered on the idea of simplifying design without sacrificing form. According to Guhl, his mission was “achieving the most with the minimum of effort.”

In addition to his work as a designer, Guhl left his mark on subsequent creatives through his 39-year tenure at his alma mater, where he was instructor to the likes of Robert Haussmann, Kurt Thut and Bruno Rey. Modern-day shoppers at IKEA owe Guhl a debt of gratitude too. He was an early advocate of flat-pack furniture, championing its ability to make good design more widely accessible.

At its core, though, Guhl’s work was inherently human-centric: “At the center of my efforts, I put people and their living requirements,” he once said. “My products must be useful to people.” Guhl died in 2004 at the age of 89.

Find a range of vintage Willy Guhl furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.