Chaise longue ‘Pernilla’ designed by Bruno Mathsson for Karl Mathsson
Sweden, 1944
Bent birch, solid birch, brass and original paper webbing.Bruno Mathsson (1907–1988) believed that furniture should adapt to the user, and not the other way around, a revolutionary notion at a time when furniture design often prioritised aesthetics over usability. Mathsson conducted detailed studies on human posture, particularly the mechanics of sitting and reclining. The ‘Pernilla’ chair was one of the first to prioritise ergonomics, offering a design that conforms to the natural contours of the human body.
Matthson learned his craft in his father’s joinery workshop which later became where he would begin experimenting with steam-bending wood, a method he would later perfect. Mathsson’s father, Karl Mathsson, specialised in traditional furniture-making which provided Bruno with a strong foundation of traditional woodworking skills. The Mathsson joinery workshop became the foundation for Bruno Mathsson International, the company that would later produce Bruno’s designs on a larger scale.
Mathsson’s focus on ergonomics led him to explore materials that would conform to the human body’s natural curves while providing proper support. Woven webbing offered flexibility and adaptability, making it an ideal choice.
The ‘Pernilla’ chair was named after Pernilla Tunberger, an eminent Swedish journalist. It is said that naming his furniture after people was Mathsson’s way of personalising his designs.
Marked.
Very rare model with wheels.
H: 91 cm / 3' 1/4''
L: 164 cm / 5' 5''
W: 58 cm / 22 3/4''
AH: 54.5 cm / 21 1/2''
* SOLD *
