Rare Eero Saarinen 'Grasshopper' Armchair in Laminated Birch, 1940s
A rare and substantial Eero Saarinen for Knoll 'Grasshopper' armchair deigned in 1946. This piece retains its original--and very durable--oil cloth upholstery to seat and back, along with its original finish on wooden frame--overall the chair remains in excellent condition for its age.
Bent-laminated birch frame featuring signature 'grasshopper' arm rests give the chair a dynamic and inviting expression--armrests also provide strong support while sitting or standing up out of this chair. The frame also has an interesting construction detail where the back legs "double-up" as they're joined to the angled arms which rise from the legs, flanking the seat, to take their final position alongside the sitter's abdomen--a visually interesting and experimental application of bent-lamination technology.
Curved backrest is decorated with round metal studs on its backside--a humorous detail that adds playfulness to the piece. Great ergonomics, it's one of the more comfortable and relaxing chairs at this size--could be use as an easy or reading chair in a smaller library. This example remains in excellent vintage condition for its age--with no structural issues or damage to upholstery.
Details
CREATOR
Knoll (Manufacturer),
Eero Saarinen (Designer)
OF THE PERIOD
Mid-Century Modern
PLACE OF ORIGIN
United States
DATE OF MANUFACTURE
1946
PERIOD
1940-1949
MATERIALS AND TECHNIQUES
Laminated Birch, Upholstery
CONDITION
Good
CONDITION DETAILS
Exceptional condition for its age-- no breaks tears, rips, etc.
WEAR
Wear consistent with age and use.
DIMENSIONS
H 33.5 in. x W 22.5 in. x D 22.5 in.
SEAT HEIGHT
18 in.
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