Pirkka Chair – Ilmari Tapiovaara for Laukaan Puu, Finland, circa 1955 | Early

Pirkka chair, rare from the early days, designed by Ilmari Tapiovaara for Laukaan Puu, Finland, around 1955. This is the first production version, made by Laukaan Puu before production was taken over by Asko and then by Artek. Ilmari Tapiovaara (1914–1999) was a leading figure in Finnish modernism. He worked early in his career in Le Corbusier's Paris studio, an influence visible in his functional yet human-centred designs. Tapiovaara is celebrated for furniture that combines modernist principles with Nordic craftsmanship using sustainable materials. The chair features a solid pine seat and backrest, paired with black lacquered birch legs, a characteristic contrast that defines Tapiovaara's iconic Pirkka design. The wood has been treated with linseed oil, giving it a rich, warm colour and highlighting the natural grain. This example is originally marked and labelled Laukaan Puu, Finland, design Tapiovaara (see photos), confirming its early production. The joint of the solid pine seat shows some separation, consistent with the age and natural movement of the wood, but the chair remains structurally sound and stable. The chair is structurally robust and in vintage condition, showing honest signs of use and wear consistent with its age, which adds to its authentic character from the 1950s. Dimensions: height 76.5 cm x width 43 cm x depth 43 cm, seat height 41 cm.