Pair of antique bentwood chairs in Thonet style – Central Europe, circa 1900

This pair of antique bentwood chairs in Thonet style, made of steam-bent beech with a looped backrest and round seat, follows the design of the Viennese chair popular in Central Europe around 1900. Originating from Central Europe during the time of the Vienna Secession, where beech was steam-bent according to precision industrial moulds. Attributed to the Thonet tradition or the Central European bentwood school (notably Jacob & Josef Kohn or Fischel), this piece exhibits the formal and constructive characteristics of early 20th-century Viennese bentwood, although no markings allow for a definitive attribution. The structure is entirely made of steam-bent beech. The backrest forms a closed loop with a double curve starting from the rear posts. The seat is round, made of solid wood, and retains a decorative relief pattern, now softened by use. The inclined rear legs converge into a lower circular crossbar. The patina of the beech has turned to a uniform dark brown. The surfaces show wear at the main contact points. The two chairs exhibit slight dimensional variations typical of handcrafted production. Details. Dimensions: Length 45.5 cm – Depth 49 cm – Height 88.5 cm – Seat height 46.5 cm. Style: Vienna Secession. Materials and techniques: Solid beech; steam bending. Place of origin: Central Europe. Period: Vienna Secession. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good condition. The two chairs show slight dimensional variations. May exhibit marks and signs of use. Wear consistent with age and use.