Armchair in Pink Velvet and Elm by Runar Engblom, Finland, 1951

This rare armchair was designed by Runar Engblom for the Vaakuna Hotel in Helsinki in 1951. The curved, round shape gives the chair a striking appearance. The organically shaped, outward bending back legs and the round, slighty tapered front legs are in elm wood. The chair has been recently reupholstered in a dusty pink velvet fabric, with a buttoned back and loose cushion following the original upholstery of the design. The Vaakuna hotel building in Helsinki w designed by the Finnish architect Erkki Huttunen in 1947. Runar Engblom was responsible for the interior furnishings while Paavo Tynell designed all the lighting. The opening ceremony of the hotel took place on 10 June 1952, right before the Olympic Games in Helsinki. I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
from
misattribution