Armchair Paimio Sanatorium
Artist/Maker
DatesManufactured: Manufactured 1932 Made: Made 1932
Material / Technique
Dimensionsh x l: Mått 64 x 84 cm
Inventory numberNMK 13/1963
Other titlesTitel (sv): Länstol Titel (en): Armchair Paimio Sanatorium Etikett (sv): Fåtölj Pemar sanatorium
DescriptionDescription: Finnish architect and designer Alvar Aalto was one of several pioneers who developed furniture using moulded and bent wood. The technique, developed in the early 1900s, uses few resources and makes it possible to produce durable furniture and objects with tight curves, creative designs and inherent resilience. Layers of wood veneer are glued to each other, bent and fixed in a mould. When the glue has dried, the wood retains the shape of the mould. This armchair, designed for the Paimio Sanatorium, gained international interest at the 1939 New York world’s fair and inspired US designers. It was shown in the Finnish pavilion, designed by Alvar and Aino Aalto. A monumental multi-tiered undulating wooden wall was here the backdrop for large photos of Finnish landscapes, factories and products. The armchair was visually and technically innovative, made of wood used sparingly and seen as an attractive alternative to tubular steel furniture.
Exhibited
Collection
TechniqueArt industry
Object category