Set of 4 Viennese café chairs in curved wood with decorated backrest – Central Europe, circa 1900

Set of 4 Viennese café chairs in bent wood with decorated backrest, Central European furniture from the Viennese Secession, originating from Central Europe and dated around 1900. Comes from Central Europe, from the late 19th century or early 20th century, where the Thonet company developed the steam-bent beech technique in the mid-19th century, which revolutionised industrial furniture. The steam-bent wood technique, patented by Michael Thonet in Vienna, allowed for the production of lightweight, durable, and disassemblable pieces that spread throughout Europe. This model fits within the formal language of the Viennese Secession, where the continuous curved line and structural economy prevail over ornamentation. Constructed from solid steam-bent beech, with a moulded plywood disc seat. The structure develops from a single continuous arc that defines the backrest and armrests on the pieces with arms. The legs, with a round section, are attached to the seat by hidden metal screws. The joinery is straightforward and functional, characteristic of the Thonet language. Details. Dimensions: Chair No. 1: Length 44 cm – Depth 41 cm – Height 91 cm – Seat height 47 cm. Chair No. 2: Length 45 cm – Depth 42 cm – Height 92 cm – Seat height 47 cm. Chair No. 3: Length 44 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 91 cm – Seat height 47 cm. Chair No. 4: Length 44 cm – Depth 44 cm – Height 91 cm – Seat height 47 cm. Style: Viennese Secession, Thonet. Materials and techniques: Solid steam-bent beech, moulded plywood seat, metal screws. Place of origin: Central Europe. Period: Viennese Secession (circa 1900) Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Structure intact. Original patina. Marks and signs of use. Wear consistent with age and use.