Ernst Martin Dettinger Set of "6057" Ash Chairs, Germany 1950s
By Ernst Martin Dettinger
Located in Utrecht, NL
The design of model “6057” dates to 1955, and shows the design heritage of the Bauhaus with unmistakeable mid-century modern touches. While the appearance of these chairs may seem uncluttered and simple at first glance, they subtly show the influential design schools, the Werkbund design and crafts association, and the Bauhaus legacy, illustrating the interconnections between design and contemporary history, everyday culture and the global political context in divided Germany. A (semi-)official encouraged/forced acceptance of a “gute Form” took place in Germany, which, in both the west and the east, was widely, although not exclusively, understood as a continuation of the reduced, rationalized, ornament free forms of inter-War Functionalist Modernism. These chairs are good examples of this with a streamlined, modernist look. Each of the six chairs is made of quality ash wood with a beautiful grain and colour. The subtly angular structure features straight and curved edges, combining the organicity of traditional craftsmanship and the architectural know-how of mid-century furniture designers, such as Ernst Martin Dettinger. The design is in the vein of the iconic Windsor chair as the backs are constructed of slender spindles that are socketed into the solid wooden seats. The thicker spindles extending downward form the legs, and those extending upward form the backs. The masterfully sculpted and symmetrically arranged individual spindles undeniably define the overall look, but the seats and tapered legs are just as appealing. The seats are upholstered in a soft fabric enhancing the sitting and visual comfort as well. The design of this set of six offers plenty visually with a striking construction and personality. The details, such as the joinery and woodworking reveal the high quality craftsmanship of the manufacturer, Lucas Schnaidt...
1950s Mid-Century Modern Vintage German Seating
Fabric, Wood
