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Vintage Industrial Stool by Robert Wagner for Rowac, c. 1940s

 

 

Industrial Stool, Model 1 by Robert Wagner for Rowac, ca. 1940’s

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  • Discover a masterpiece of industrial design with the Robert Wagner Model 1 Stool for Rowac, a timeless piece from the 1940s that epitomizes the fusion of functionality and minimalistic elegance. Crafted in Chemnitz, Germany, by the renowned Rowac (Karl Robert Wagner in Chemnitz), this iconic three-legged stool stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of industrial aesthetics and the Bauhaus movement's principles.

    Constructed from durable steel and featuring a classic black cast iron base, the Rowac Stool not only showcases an indestructible design but also embodies the Bauhaus ideal of functionalist beauty. Its light yet sturdy structure, complemented by a round wooden seat, makes it versatile for use as a seat, side table, or display stand, seamlessly blending into any setting.

     

    Proudly displayed in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna and the Institute of Art History at Delft University of Technology, this stool is not just a piece of furniture but a piece of history. Once utilized in the workshops of the Bauhaus school under the discerning eye of Walter Gropius, it now enjoys a cult status among collectors and design aficionados alike.

     

    Rare and increasingly sought after, this Rowac stool is a collector's dream, offering a glimpse into the revolutionary world of early 20th-century industrial design. Whether for its historical significance or its timeless aesthetic, the Robert Wagner Model 1 Stool for Rowac is a must-have for any enthusiast of Bauhaus and Art Deco design.

     

    The Robert Wagner Model 1 Stool for Rowac is a significant piece in the history of industrial design, reflecting the ethos of the Bauhaus movement and the early 20th-century shift towards functionalism in furniture design.

     

    The Stool

    This stool, characterized by its simple, three-legged design and durable steel construction, was groundbreaking for its time. It features a round wooden seat (initially made of solid wood and later plywood) and back atop a black cast iron base, embodying the Bauhaus principle of form following function. The stool's minimalist design and industrial materials made it versatile for use in various settings, from workshops to modern homes. Its durability and utility were prioritized, with every aspect of its construction designed for longevity and ease of use.

    Today, the three-legged stool is one of Rowac's best-known products. It was not only offered in different heights, but also with a backrest (model IV), as a four-legged version with a rectangular wooden seat (model II), as a folding stool and for special applications also as a height-adjustable swivel stool (model III).

     

    History

    The stool was first designed in 1905 and debuted at the Leipzig Fair in 1909, quickly becoming known for its innovative use of lightweight sheet metal. It gained prominence when Walter Gropius, the founder of the Bauhaus movement, chose it for the Bauhaus school in Dessau, recognizing its alignment with the movement's focus on functional, accessible design. The Rowac stool was not only a fixture in the Bauhaus workshops but also became a symbol of the school's revolutionary approach to art, design, and education.

    Throughout its production, the stool has seen various iterations, including different models with backrests or adjustable heights. However, its core design principles remained unchanged, emphasizing simplicity, durability, and utility.

     

    The Designer and Rowac

    Robert Wagner, the founder of Rowac (an abbreviation of Karl RObert WAgner in Chemnitz), was a visionary designer and entrepreneur. He established his company in 1888 in Chemnitz, Saxony, and initially focused on industrial furniture. Wagner was ahead of his time in recognizing the importance of functional design in the workplace. His products, particularly the stools, were praised for their ergonomic features and the health benefits they provided to workers.

    Rowac became synonymous with high-quality industrial furniture, and its products were used in various prestigious institutions, including the Bauhaus school. The company's commitment to quality and innovation made it a leader in its field, and Robert Wagner's designs have left a lasting legacy in the world of industrial design.

    Today, the Rowac stool is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its aesthetic appeal and functionality. It remains highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts, representing a key moment in the evolution of modern design.

     

    The base plate is embossed with the Rowac logo

    This stool dates from the 1940s onwards

    Size: Height: 60 cm Seat: diameter 35 cm Distance from leg to leg: 50 cm

    Condition: this vintage pieces is in very good original condition. Beautiful patina. The wooden seat has been gently refurbished and sealed to ensure it last another lifetime. Completely cleaned & made ready for home or office use.

     

    Read more here and here 

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