Rare Tapio Wirkkala Pair of Dining Chairs

Tapio Wirkkala, pair of dining chairs, metal, plywood, Finland, 1960s

This exceptional pair of chairs by Finnish designer Tapio Wirkkala shows a beautiful and dynamic play of lines that structure the seat and backrest in their appearance. Reminding in shape of Wirkkala's 'Nikke' chairs this pair has a rather stunning design. The dynamic lines remind of the annular rings of a tree, but then Wirkkala arranged the rings more in a parallel manner. 

Tapio Wirkkala (1915-1985) was not only a Finnish furniture and product designer but a sculptor too, and he was one of the major figures of postwar design in Finland. In 1933 Wirkkala began the studies of Industrial arts at the Central School of Applied Arts and graduated in 1936. Under his fellow students was no other than Ilmari Tapiovaara. After forced military service and the Second World War Wirkkala started to work successfully as a glass artist. He also worked as a graphic, exhibition and furniture designer. As he said himself "my fatal defect is that I am interested in too many things". His oeuvre contains cutlery, glass ware, furniture and sculptures. At the Triennale in 1951 Wirkkala was aquainted with Gio Ponti and his family to whom Wirkkala began a friendship. One of his trademarks is his incorporation of Finnish flora and fauna in his design. He is inspired by the materials and appearances of nature. His sensitive approach to different materials and his great craftsmanship resulted in striking designs. Already in the 1940s Wirkkala’s interest for plywood arose. By grinding laminated plywood Wirkkala achieved rhythmic lines. These patterns would often resemble in leaves or other natural shapes. Like the tables he designed for Asko show the technique of plywood intarsia used as decorative accents on the tabletops.

Please note that this item is in good, used condition with traces of age and use, including stains and wear. For further details, we encourage you to reach out to our team of design specialists.

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