Pair of Armchairs Model 1401 by Wim Rietveld for Gispen, Netherlands, 1950s

A striking pair of Model 1401 armchairs designed by Wim Rietveld for Gispen in 1954. Characteristic of Rietveld’s functionalist approach, the design combines a slender tubular steel frame with an exposed metal back construction and sculptural black Bakelite armrests. The restrained construction gives the chairs a particularly light and architectural appearance.

The Model 1401 was introduced at the 10th Milan Triennale in 1954, where the design was awarded a gold medal. This pair is upholstered in a refined grey wool fabric, beautifully complementing the original muted tone of the steel frames.

Condition
Very good overall condition. Wool upholstery in very good to excellent condition; steel frames in very good vintage condition with only minimal signs of wear.

Details
Designer: Wim Rietveld
Producer: Gispen
Model: 1401
Country: The Netherlands
Design year: 1954
Material: Lacquered steel, Bakelite and wool upholstery