Arnt Lande for Møller & Stokke, 1940s – Upholstered in Shearling

Norwegian craftsmanship, while historically rich, often did not gain the same international acclaim as its Scandinavian counterparts. However, mid-century Norwegian designers like Arnt Lande created exceptional pieces that stand as testaments to their skill. These stunning chairs are a prime example of the innovation that flourished when modernism arrived in Norway.

Designed by Arnt Lande and produced by Møller & Stokke during the early 1940s, these chairs epitomize the era’s emphasis on simplicity and high-quality materials. Constructed from pine—a local wood known for its strength and beauty—these chairs exhibit masterful craftsmanship. The sculptural spindles, arranged symmetrically, form an elegant, airy lower backrest, giving the piece a light, floating appearance despite the solid wood construction. The gently curved armrests seamlessly follow the contours of the seat cushion, enhancing both comfort and visual appeal.

Beneath the cushion, the impeccable dovetail joinery is visible, showcasing the precision of the craftsmanship. The tapered legs, supported by two horizontal stretchers, align with the spindles to create a cohesive, refined look. Recently reupholstered in soft shearling, these chairs offer exceptional comfort, embodying the cozy, functional spirit of Scandinavian design.

Arnt Lande worked with Møller & Stokke from 1941 to 1943, a period when Norwegian designers, including Fredrik A. Kayser, Torbjørn Afdal, and Torbjørn Bekken, were at their creative peak. Although the focus of Norwegian furniture design shifted in the 1950s, the 1940s produced truly remarkable designs, exemplified by these chairs.

Condition: Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age and use. Recently reupholstered in shearling for added comfort.
About the designer:

Arnt Lande is known as Stokke's “Unknown star designer”. Arnt Lande (1920-2005) was a Norwegian furniture designer and interior designer. He was employed by the furniture manufacturer Stokke for 40 years and thus left a clear mark on the company's production.

Lande worked for Møller & Stokke in the period 1941 to 1943. From 1943 to 1947, he studied at the Wood Department at the State School of Crafts and Art Industry under architect Arne Korsmo. After his studies, Lande established his own factory in Lyngdal in 1947, but the following year, he got a job as a designer at Møller & Stokke. His first chair for the company was probably Haakon (1948), and two years later he came up with the salon furniture Kari. Lande eventually designed stuffed models, which were the company's speciality. Arnt Lande was soon given responsibility for most of the model development at Møller & Stokke, which from 1956 changed its name to Stokke Fabrikker.

Stokke realized more and more the benefits of rational production. Lande himself believed that the design of the models had to be adapted to the production apparatus, which in turn led to more sensible material utilization, larger series and cheaper prices for consumers.

Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Arnt Lande and Stokke's product development team designed armchairs with the older generation in mind. The solid Minuet came in 1972 and was in production for more than 20 years. In addition to working as a designer for Stokke, Arnt Lande was a drawing teacher at Borgund Vocational School, and he performed a number of interior assignments.

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