This pair of Thonet style bentwood chairs in steam-bent beech stands out for its turned baluster spindles in the back and for the round seat with central sunburst pressed pattern. Central Europe, circa 1920.
Attributed to the Thonet tradition or the Central European bentwood school (including makers such as Jacob & Josef Kohn or Fischel), this piece reflects the formal and structural standards of early 20th-century Viennese production, although no maker’s mark is present to confirm a definitive attribution.
Adding turned baluster spindles to the bentwood chair was a nod by Vienna manufacturers to historicist models, offering a more decorative alternative to plain spindles. Mundus catalogued this family as a domestic model intended for dining or entryway use.
The structure follows the bentwood technique: continuous curved leg and perimeter lower hoop, both in steam-bent beech. The turned spindles are introduced as an ornamental element without altering the constructive logic of the frame.
The seat keeps its original sunburst pressed pattern, a technique that combined anti-slip function with decoration. The patina shows a warm honey tone with honest wear on the lower hoop and seat edge.
They work well around a solid wood dining table or as accent chairs in transit zones. The turned spindles add a decorative point that softens the linear rigour of classic bentwood.
Details
- Materials and techniques: Steam-bent beech wood; turned baluster spindles; pressed round seat
- Place of origin: Central Europe
- Period: Vienna Secession
- Date of manufacture: Circa 1920
- Dimensions: Piece #1: Length 44 cm × Depth 47 cm × Height 88 cm (seat 49 cm) · Piece #2: Length 40 cm × Depth 46 cm × Height 89 cm (seat 47 cm)
- Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Manufacturer labels not preserved.
ONE OF A KIND PIECE
At Amaru Antiques (Barcelona) we select each antique for its history, its craftsmanship and the quiet presence it brings to a contemporary home.
