The High Back Chair was designed in 1904 by the Austrian artist, architect, and designerJosef Hoffmann, as part of theArts and Craftsmovement.
Image source:https://www.masterart.com/artworks/4315/josef-hoffmann-high-back-chair
AboutHigh Back Chair
The High Back Chair executed byWiener Werkstättedepicts is a very simple design object, characterized by a high back, with strips from the smooth surface that forms linear geometries.This chair demonstratesa rational simplification of forms. Yet, at the same time, the grid of squares piercing the rectangular back splat illustrates the fusion of decorative and structural elements typical of theWiener Werkstätte.
Image source:https://www.masterart.com/artworks/4315/josef-hoffmann-high-back-chair
A chair as an art masterpiece
TheWiener Werkstättewas a production community of visual artists bringing together architects, artists, and designers established in 1903 byJosef Hoffmann,Koloman Moser,andFritz Waerndorferin Vienna, Austria.In this community were created many everyday objects which were elevated to some art objects, like the High Back Chair.
Hoffmann‘s designs embraced the beauty of geometry in pieces that feature grids and angular forms.Hoffmann considered everything he created work. With the High Back Chair, he brought to the domestic and built environment a new level ofelegance and simplicity.
Image source:https://www.masterart.com/artworks/4315/josef-hoffmann-high-back-chair
Data sheet
Date:1904
Period:20th century
Materials:Oak, oak veneer, beech and deerskin seat
Dimensions:114.5 x 49.5 x 41 cm (45¹/₈ x 19¹/₂ x 16¹/₈ inches)
Manufacturer:attributed to Johann Soulek for the Wiener Werkstätte, Vienna
Exhibitions:“Yearning for Beauty for the 100th Anniversary of the Wiener Werkstaette”, MAK, Vienna, 2003-04.
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