Highback Falcon Lounge Chairs in Brown Leather & Chrome by Sigurd Ressell for Vatne Møbler, 1970s, Set of 2

Model · Highback Falcon
Designer · Sigurd Ressell
Manufacturer · Vatne Møbler
Origin · Norway
Period · 1970s
Style · Scandinavian Modern
Materials · Chrome-plated steel, leather
Colour · Mirror grey, brown

Object

Few Scandinavian chairs capture the relaxed experimentation of the 1970s quite like Sigurd Ressell's Falcon.

Rather than constructing a conventional upholstered chair, Ressell suspended the seating within a minimal supporting structure, allowing the leather to respond naturally to the body. In this early steel version, the idea becomes particularly clear. A precise chrome-plated frame carries generous brown leather cushions, creating an unusual tension between industrial rigidity and almost hammock-like comfort.

The highback proportions give the chairs an especially commanding silhouette. Presented here as a matching pair with original leather and steel, they retain the material character and understated confidence that made the Falcon an international success.

Designer

Sigurd Ressell (1920–2010) was one of the important figures of postwar Norwegian furniture design, combining a cabinetmaker's understanding of construction with a willingness to experiment with new structures and materials.

After studying carpentry at the Norwegian National Academy of Craft & Art Industry, Ressell worked with Rastad & Relling from 1948 to 1968. During this period, he developed furniture ranging from the Bambi series to designs for the Norwegian Parliament and increasingly explored the possibilities of steel and suspended seating.

In 1968, Ressell became chief designer at Vatne Møbler. His defining design followed soon afterwards. Originally called Blank Vals, the Falcon Chair entered production in 1971 and rapidly became an international success. Its suspended construction offered an entirely different interpretation of the lounge chair: flexible, visually light and exceptionally comfortable.

The Falcon would become Ressell's most recognisable work and one of the enduring icons of 1970s Norwegian design.

Manufacturer

Vatne Møbler was founded in 1946 by Knut Sæter in Vatne, Sunnmøre, Norway.

The company became known for high-quality upholstered furniture and collaborations with important Norwegian designers including Fredrik A. Kayser and Sigurd Ressell. Its combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern production helped bring Norwegian furniture to an increasingly international audience during the postwar decades.

The Falcon became one of Vatne Møbler's greatest successes and remains closely associated with the company's contribution to Scandinavian design history.

Condition

Both chairs retain their original chrome-plated steel structures and original brown leather upholstery.

The steel remains beautifully preserved, while the leather carries the natural character expected from an authentic vintage example. Overall, both chairs are in excellent original vintage condition, preserving the materials and presence of the period.

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

Availability

The set of two lounge chairs is ready to ship within 10 business days.

Included

The lounge chairs are accompanied by a Back to the Furniture Certificate of Originality, a Back to the Furniture flyer, a Thank You card and a small gift.

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 pieces, their condition, shipping, delivery or any other details, please get in touch. Additional information is always available before purchase.

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