Early modernist LaWo1 armchair by Han Pieck for Lawo Ommen, Netherlands 1946.

An exceptionally rare LaWo1 armchair from the early modernism, designed in 1946 by Han Pieck for Lawo Ommen in the Netherlands. Produced in the years immediately following the war, the LaWo1 stands as a pioneering example of European modernist furniture design, reflecting a period marked by material scarcity, experimentation, and functional clarity. Pieck's design is distinguished by its sculptural construction of molded plywood in a single piece, seamlessly forming the seat, backrest, and armrests into a continuous organic silhouette. The bold yet restrained shape of the chair anticipates later developments in bent wood and molded plywood furniture, positioning the LaWo1 as an important precursor within the modernist canon. Production was extremely limited, with about 1, 200 units made, making surviving chairs highly sought after by collectors and institutions. The present example clearly reflects a long and demanding life, bearing visible signs of use and age. These marks are consistent with its early experimental construction and contribute to its historical authenticity. Due to its early molded plywood technique and age, the LaWo1 should be considered a very fragile object. The material structure requires careful handling and respectful use, underscoring its status not only as furniture but as a rare design artifact from the formative years of post-war modernism. The LaWo1 embodies the optimism and ingenuity of Dutch design in the immediate post-war period. A rare opportunity to acquire a museum-worthy piece by Han Pieck, whose work remains underrepresented but increasingly recognized in the history of modern furniture.