Pair of antique bentwood chairs in Thonet style – Central Europe, circa 1905

This pair of antique bentwood chairs in Thonet style, made of steam-bent beech, features a wraparound backrest, curved armrests, and a round seat. They belong to the family of Viennese office chairs produced in Central Europe around 1905. Originating from Central Europe, around 1905, where steam bending allowed for enveloping shapes without complex joinery. Manufactured at the same time as Thonet productions, this chair illustrates the bentwood technique developed in Central Europe at the end of the 19th century. Its construction and typology evoke a parallel production, possibly a period copy or a licensed creation within the extensive network of workshops that adopted this innovative process. Beyond any precise attribution, it retains the functional character and essential aesthetics of period bentwood. The two chairs share technique, era, and bentwood structure, with differently designed backrests: one with vertical slats, the other with a fan-shaped openwork palmette. The armrests emerge from a continuous arc integrated into the side frame. The seat is round, made of solid moulded wood, above a lower circular rail. XDetails. Dimensions: Length 55 cm – Depth 41 cm – Height 70 cm – Seat height 43 cm. Style: Viennese Secession. Materials and techniques: Solid beech; steam bending. Place of origin: Central Europe. Period: Viennese Secession. Date of manufacture: Circa 1905. Condition / Observations: Good condition. The two chairs have differently designed backrests and slight dimensional variations. They may show marks and signs of use. Wear consistent with age and use.