Alvar Aalto (Finland 1898-1976)
Artek Finland 1940s. Birch and mahogany wood.
‘L-Leg’ model 91 dining table and six model 60 stools.
Table: 126cm diameter x 72cm high Stools: 34cm diameter x 44cm high
Dating from the late 1940s this set is constructed using the highly sophisticated technique of supported wood lamination invented by Alvar Aalto in the 1930s at the height of the modernist period.
This particular set features the far more unusual mahogany top surfaces instead of the more common birch ones. The upper surface of each piece is constructed in a slightly different way than those earlier productions that had a series of visible finger joints around the outer edges – instead, on this set all the outer edges are made from one continual fine birch wood band that encompasses the mahogany veneered surfaces.
Overall the set is in original completely untouched condition (we chose not to restore or refinish it knowing that this will appeal to Aalto and modernism collectors).
Condition: Each piece has just the right amount of warm patina. The table especially has clear superficial signs of use especially to the edges; Years of handling and light use where people sat around it and appreciated it for its design and functionality for eighty years is what makes this set particularly desirable.
Price: Table 3.750 euro / x6 Stools 4,800 euro (more photos and detailed condition report available on request)
[merzbau] 