High-Back Falcon Lounge Chair in Brown Leather & Chrome by Sigurd Ressell for Vatne Møbler, 1970s

Model · Falcon, High-Back
Designer · Sigurd Ressell
Manufacturer · Vatne Møbler
Origin · Norway
Period · 1970s
Style · Scandinavian Modern / Norwegian Modern
Materials · Chromed steel, leather
Colour · Chrome, brown

Object

The high-back Falcon Chair is one of the most distinctive expressions of Sigurd Ressell's experiments with suspended seating.

Developed around 1970 and introduced by Vatne Møbler shortly afterwards, the Falcon was based on an unconventional idea. Rather than building comfort around a conventional upholstered frame, Ressell suspended a generous leather seat within an independent supporting structure, allowing the body to settle naturally into the chair.

This early version uses a chromed steel base, giving the Falcon an especially architectural character. Four slender supports rise from the floor to hold the suspended seating above them, visually separating structure from comfort. The high back extends the leather form upwards, creating a more enveloping sitting position while preserving the openness of the construction.

In this example, the reflective chrome frame contrasts with warm brown leather. The materials perform very different roles but remain equally visible: steel provides tension and stability, while leather introduces softness, movement and the tactile character that develops naturally with age.

The Falcon is both technically intelligent and unmistakably a product of the 1970s. Its low suspended seat, exposed structure and generous proportions give it a relaxed presence without relying on conventional mass.

Designer

Sigurd Ressell (1920–2010) was a Norwegian interior and industrial designer whose work played an important role in the development of postwar Norwegian furniture.

After studying carpentry at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft & Art Industry, Ressell worked for Rastad & Relling from 1948 until 1968, designing furniture and interiors during a formative period for Scandinavian modernism.

During the 1960s, his work increasingly explored steel structures, suspended seating and unconventional methods of supporting the body. These experiments eventually led to the design that would define his career.

Ressell joined Vatne Møbler as chief designer in 1968, and the Falcon followed around 1970. Originally developed under the name Blank Vals, the chair entered production as the Falcon in 1971 and quickly became an international commercial success.

Manufacturer

Vatne Møbler was established in 1946 in Vatne, Sunnmøre, originally under the name Vatne Lenestolfabrikk.

The Norwegian manufacturer became particularly recognised for high-quality upholstered furniture and its collaborations with designers including Fredrik A. Kayser and Sigurd Ressell.

The Falcon became one of Vatne's defining designs. Its international popularity during the 1970s helped establish both the manufacturer and Ressell's work far beyond Norway.

Early chrome-frame versions such as this example represent the original structural expression of the design before Ressell developed the later laminated bentwood base.

Condition

The chromed steel structure and brown leather upholstery remain fully original and are presented in excellent vintage condition.

The chrome frame retains its reflective finish and structural integrity, showing only subtle traces of age and use.

The original brown leather is equally well preserved, retaining its softness, depth of colour and natural vintage character.

Overall, the chair is an exceptionally well-preserved original example.

Dimensions

Width · 78 cm / 30.7 in
Depth · 78 cm / 30.7 in
Height · 94 cm / 37 in
Seat height · 38 cm / 14.9 in

Included

The High-Back Falcon Lounge Chair is accompanied by a Back to the Furniture Certificate of Originality, a Back to the Furniture flyer, a Thank You card and a small gift.

Availability

The High-Back Falcon Lounge Chair is ready to ship within 5–10 business days.

Shipping

Worldwide shipping is available. Every piece is carefully prepared and packed for international transport. Shipping costs are calculated according to destination at checkout, with tracking provided after dispatch.

Enquiries

For questions about the piece, its condition, shipping, delivery or any other details, please get in touch. Additional information is always available before purchase.

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