Antique Ca 1880s Thonet Chaise, Model #2, Austria, Bentwood Beech With Scrolls, Original Cane, Lounge Chair Adjustable Back

Details

Description

A very early ca 1880s and rare authentic Thonet bentwood beech foldable lounge chaise with large scrolls, original cane panels … Read more A very early ca 1880s and rare authentic Thonet bentwood beech foldable lounge chaise with large scrolls, original cane panels and adjustable back.
It is signed THONET.
Beautiful patina due to ages and history which brings much character to the chaise.
The first production of this model #2 was produced in Austria circa 1880s. I do not know the exact production date of this chair but the design and details are in line with those produced in that era.

Approximate dimensions:
When folded down for shipping: 58"L x 27"W at arms x 22.5"H
when extended out as long as possible: 75"L x 27"W at arms x 18-1/2" at highest seat ht.

NB: There has been at some point a repair to the arm and to the adjustable arm which makes it so that one side does not sit perfectly on the rungs unless someone is seated in the chair. There are areas of splitting at the bends that do not affect the integrity of the chair. Please see pictures


History
Chaise Longue, Model No. 2
Designed before 1887
Made by Gebrüder Thonet (Thonet Brothers), Vienna (1853-present)
The curves and spiral flourishes that fill the space between the seat and the base of this chaise lounge are both decorative and functional, supporting and bracing the long seat that also forms a leg rest. The flowing interplay of linear elements is intrinsic to the design and production of bentwood furniture, a process Thonet pioneered, in which solid lengths of beechwood are steam bent into lightweight, curvilinear shapes and assembled simply with screws. This elaborate model, with scrolled curves and an adjustable back, was first shown in the Royal Jubilee Exhibition held in Manchester, England, in 1887 by Thonet's British representative, B. Hembry & Co., and illustrated in Thonet's sale catalogue the following year. See less