Vintage Paimio #41 Plywood Armchairs by Alvar Aalto for Artek

This pair of vintage mid century modern Paimio #41 arm chairs originally designed by modernist architect Alvar Aalto in 1928 were manufactured by Artek and made in Finland circa 1970. Admired as much for its sculptural presence as for its comfort, the Paimio chair was named after and designed for the Paimio tuberculosis sanatorium in Southwest Finland and was designed by Alvar Aalto at the same time as the sanatorium. The armchair was intended to help people breathe easier. The sleek curved contours and simple, yet striking form of these chairs have become iconic. A tour de force in bentwood, the Paimio chair tested the limits of plywood manufacturing in the early 1930s. The armrests and the legs - the rings - are made of 100% Finnish birch plywood in a natural finish contrasted with black lacquered wooden seats built from a single piece of pressed plywood. Branded “the first soft wooden chair,” the Paimio inspired countless other mid century designers, including Eero Saarinen and Charles and Ray Eames.

CONDITION
Excellent vintage condition with general wear consistent with age and use. Some scrapes and minor chipping to black lacquered seats especially along the front edges as per photos.

DIMENSIONS
W 23.75" x D 31.5 x H 25.75"
Seat Height: 13"