A rare early Alvar Aalto Model 31 Cantilever Armchair, designed in 1931–32 and produced in Finland by Huonekalu-ja Rakennustyötehdas Oy, Turku.

The chair was imported and distributed in Britain by Finmar and retains its original Finmar label, identifying it as an early pre-war example dating from the 1930s.

The Model 31 is one of Aalto’s most distinctive early experiments with the cantilever principle in laminated birch. The chair is constructed around two continuous laminated-birch side frames, which extend along the floor before curving upwards to support the seat and arms without conventional rear legs. Between them sit the moulded plywood seat and back, creating an unusually open construction in which the structure of the chair remains clearly visible.

This particular example retains its original black-painted seat and back, providing a strong contrast with the warm birch frame. The black surfaces have developed considerable character through use, with areas of wear and numerous small losses and flakes to the original paint. We have deliberately left these surfaces untouched rather than attempting to repaint or refinish them.

The laminated-birch frame has been carefully cleaned and waxed and has mellowed to a rich golden-brown colour. There are small marks, scratches, dings and dents throughout, together with the variations in colour and surface that we would expect from a chair dating from the 1930s.

Despite its age and the visible wear to its surfaces, the chair remains structurally solid and is presented in good vintage condition. No attempt has been made to remove the evidence of its long use, and for us the combination of the worn black paint and warm, aged birch is one of the most appealing aspects of this particular example.

We have dealt in Alvar Aalto furniture for many years and have also collected his work ourselves. The Model 31 is an early and highly sculptural example of Aalto’s exploration of the cantilever principle in laminated timber, and the original black finish and Finmar label make this a very good example of the design from the pre-war period.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.