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'Merkur' Lounge Chairs by Arne Norell for Norell möbel AB, Sweden 1960s

About the Item

Swedish designer, Arne Norell’s conceptual designs, gained recognition for their use of traditional materials and forms like fabrics and wood combined with simple and vanguard lines. This pair of “Merkur” chairs was designed by Arne Norell in the 1960s and each of them was handmade in Aneby, Sweden in the same factory that Norell established himself a decade earlier. This model is a modern classic with all the characteristics of a genuine Swedish modern design. Arne Norell, was a prominent figure in the world of Swedish mid-century modern design, and created these stylish "Merkur" lounge chairs during the 1960s, capturing the essence of Scandinavian craftsmanship and aesthetics. Known for his innovative approach, Norell seamlessly blended form and function in his designs, establishing himself as a leading figure in the mid-century modern movement. These "Merkur" lounge chairs exemplify Norell's mastery, featuring loose padded cushions that beckon relaxation, enticing users to unwind in comfort. Elevated on square, lacquered timber plinth bases, these chairs not only showcase Norell's commitment to quality materials but also highlight the clean lines and geometric shapes characteristic of Scandinavian design during the mid-20th century. The wooden skirting establishes the square shape of the design and grounds it visually as well. The generous proportions of these "Merkur" lounge chairs provide ample surface area for lounging, a key feature of mid-century modern furniture. Norell's understanding of the human form and the desire for comfort is evident in the thoughtful design of these chairs, making them not only aesthetically pleasing but also incredibly inviting. What sets these chairs apart is the modern edge introduced by the black cowhide upholstery. This choice of material adds a touch of luxury and uniqueness to the design, while simultaneously nodding to the Scandinavian tradition of using natural elements in furniture. The juxtaposition of the organic cowhide against the geometric frames creates a harmonious balance, underscoring Norell's commitment to marrying tradition with modernity. In addition to the lounge chairs, Norell expanded the "Merkur" collection to include a two-seater sofa with the same model name. This cohesive approach to design allowed users to create a unified and stylish living space with pieces that complemented each other seamlessly. The perks of incorporating these "Merkur" lounge chairs into interior design are manifold; their ergonomic design and lush upholstery make them inviting and comfortable, creating an ideal setting for relaxation. Furthermore, thanks to their mid-century modern aesthetic, these chairs can seamlessly adapt to various interior styles, from modern to contemporary, making them versatile additions to any space. The timeless aesthetic of these chairs ensures that they remain relevant and stylish across different design trends. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, lounge chairs like this pair serve as focal points in any room, elevating the overall design scheme. Whether placed in a cosy reading nook or as part of a larger seating arrangement, these chairs will effortlessly enhance the visual appeal of the space with their commanding presence. ‎Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium cow hide. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information. Dimensions: 33.07 in W x 35.03 in D x 26.77 in H; Seat height 15.74 in 84 cm W x 89 cm D x 68 cm H; Seat height 40 cm About the designer: Arne Norell started his own workshop in 1954 in the town of Solna, Sweden. Thereafter, he moved to Småland and established his company Möbel AB Arne Norell, today known as Norell Möbel AB (Norell Furniture). He was known for his versatile use of wood, leather, fabric, and metal in furniture characterized by comfort and ease. Norell’s success made him a household name within the interior design-world of Europe. Several models were also produced in other parts of the world under a licence. He was to a great extent inspired by Danish design. Two examples of this influence are the lounge chair Ari and the safari chair Sirocco. Ari was awarded the British Furniture Manufacturer’s greatest award “showpiece of the year” in 1973. Many of the models he designed came into production after his death in 1971. His designs are still handcrafted by the same company today, Norell Möbel AB.

Creator:

Arne Norell (Designer),Norell Möbel AB (Manufacturer)

Dimensions:

Height: 68 in (172.72 cm)Width: 84 in (213.36 cm)Depth: 89 in (226.06 cm)Seat Height: 40 in (101.6 cm)

Sold As:

Set of 2

Style:

Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Cowhide,Wood

Place of Origin:

Sweden

Period:

1960-1969

Date of Manufacture:

1960s

Condition:

Reupholstered. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium cow hide. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

Seller Location:

Utrecht, NL

Reference Number:

Seller: 202210051stDibs: LU2947338268642

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Shop All Arne Norell

Arne Norell

Arne Norell’s enduring designs mixed leather and metal as well as turned wood and bentwood in pieces that allowed the natural beauty of these materials to shine. Simple and casual yet sophisticated, his vintage sofas, lounge chairs and other furniture epitomize the Scandinavian modern style that took post–World War II design by storm.

Although he created versatile furnishings that promoted comfort along with style, Norell is lesser known than many other mid-century designers, with some of his work produced only after his death. Born in Åsele, Sweden, Norell opened a furniture workshop in Solna, just north of Stockholm, in 1954. In 1958, he established Møbel AB Arne Norell on a farm in Småland. (This region is also the birthplace of IKEA, which opened its first store that same year.) The beauty and tranquility of this location were a source of inspiration.

In Småland, Norell created his most well-known designs, among them the Inca armchair with visible wooden dowels and plush leather, the Indra and Ilona sofas and the spare but elegant wood-framed Sirocco chair (1964). For many of his designs, Norell looked to the same military-style campaign furniture that had, decades prior, inspired the revered Safari chair (1933) crafted by Kaare Klint, a legendary Danish designer and Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts professor who taught the likes of Hans Wegner, Ole Wanscher and others.

Like these earlier furniture designers, Norell was committed to making comfortable and practical furniture. Using leather and warm woods as the building blocks of his work, he eschewed glue and screws, instead securing his designs with buckles and leather straps. In 1973, Norell earned posthumous recognition from the British Furniture Manufacturers Association for his sumptuous Ari chair, a luxurious lounge set on a chrome-plated steel frame with foam cushions covered in leather.

During his lifetime, Norell’s work was popular among European interior designers. However, it became more widely known after 1971, when many of his designs were finally put into production. Norell’s furnishings, as well as work by his daughter Marie Norell-Möller and other Swedish designers, are still crafted by hand in the Aneby, Sweden, factory operated by Norell Furniture, which has remained a family-run company.

Find a collection of authentic vintage Arne Norell furniture today on 1stDibs.