High-Back Falcon Lounge Chairs in Cognac Leather & Plywood by Sigurd Ressell for Vatne Møbler, 1970s, Set of 2

Model · Falcon, High-Back
Designer · Sigurd Ressell
Manufacturer · Vatne Møbler
Origin · Norway
Period · 1970s
Style · Scandinavian Modern / Norwegian Modern
Materials · Bent plywood, leather
Colour · Dark brown, cognac

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 structural idea. Rather than constructing 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.

The earliest Falcon used a metal base, but in 1974 Ressell developed the laminated bentwood structure seen here. Four sweeping plywood elements create a remarkably simple supporting frame, with the leather seating suspended between them. This separation between rigid structure and soft seating gives the Falcon its characteristic floating appearance.

The high-back version extends the leather upwards into a more enveloping silhouette, providing additional support without sacrificing the openness of the construction. Dark brown bentwood and warm cognac leather create a particularly rich material combination, emphasising both the sculptural frame and the softness of the suspended cushions.

Presented as a pair, the repeated bentwood structures become especially architectural. Their low profiles and generous leather surfaces give the chairs substantial presence, while the open bases prevent them from appearing visually heavy.

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 unconventional structures and methods of supporting the body. His experiments with steel, canvas and suspended seating eventually established the principles that would lead to his most celebrated design.

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.

The later laminated wood version refined the concept further, combining the relaxed character of suspended seating with the bentwood technology deeply associated with Scandinavian furniture.

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.

The introduction of the laminated bentwood base in 1974 made the chair lighter and easier to distribute internationally while giving the Falcon the distinctive sculptural structure for which it remains widely recognised today.

Condition

Both chairs retain their fully original bent plywood structures, which have been carefully refinished to restore and preserve their dark brown appearance.

The cognac leather cushions have been refreshed and remain in excellent condition, retaining the softness and natural character appropriate to the design.

The wooden structures are equally well preserved, with their sweeping laminated profiles remaining structurally sound and visually clean.

Overall, the pair is presented in excellent restored vintage condition while preserving its original frames and character.

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 set of two High-Back Falcon Lounge Chairs 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 set is ready to ship within 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 pieces, their condition, shipping, delivery or any other details, please get in touch. Additional information is always available before purchase.

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