Wassily Chair, After Marcel Breuer (1970s–80s)
A Bauhaus icon reborn — the timeless geometry of Breuer’s Wassily chair, circa 1970s-80s
Vintage Wassily Chair, After Marcel Breuer (1970s–80s)
A striking vintage example of Marcel Breuer’s iconic model ‘B3’ or Wassily chair design, produced c. 1970’s-1980s and faithfully reflecting the original 1925 Bauhaus masterpiece.
The tubular steel frame and cognac leather strap construction pay homage to Breuer’s revolutionary use of industrial materials — a hallmark of early modernist design. Minimal yet sculptural, the chair remains one of the most recognisable silhouettes in 20th-century furniture, balancing comfort, lightness, and architectural clarity.
The design remains one of the most celebrated expressions of Bauhaus modernism — combining sculptural geometry, industrial materials, and effortless comfort.
Designer: After Marcel Breuer
Authenticity: Not Knoll, but high-quality vintage reproduction
Origin: European manufacture (likely Italy), c.1970-80s
Materials: Chrome-plated tubular steel, cognac leather straps
Dimensions: (Approximately) Height: 73 cm Width:78 cm Depth: 65 cm
Condition: Presented in good vintage condition. The chrome frame shows light age-appropriate wear, and the leather remains in attractive condition with gentle patina. One of the lower-back structural screws is missing, resulting in minor movement in that joint (as photographed). A replacement screw is required to restore full stability. Priced accordingly.
As with all vintage pieces, subtle signs of age and use are to be expected.
A timeless modernist statement piece — elegant, architectural, and enduringly collectible.
Marcel Breuer (1902–1981)
A leading figure of the Bauhaus movement, Hungarian-born Marcel Breuer pioneered the use of tubular steel in furniture, merging art and industry in an entirely new aesthetic. While teaching at the Bauhaus under Walter Gropius, Breuer designed the Model B3 chair — later named the Wassily in honour of artist Wassily Kandinsky. His work with tubular steel furniture for Thonet and later Knoll International defined the modernist approach to functional, enduring design. (Inspired by the frame of a bicycle and influenced by the constructivist theories of the De Stjil movement, Marcel Breuer was still an apprentice at the Bauhaus when he reduced the classic club chair to its elemental lines and planes, forever changing the course of furniture design.We try to capture the condition of our items in our photographs as best as possible. Prior to dispatch all items are carefully cleaned and re-coated with danish oil to ensure your item is looking its best when delivered.
Prices do not include delivery.
Contact us to arrange to view, discuss collection or if you have any queries.
We deliver locally within Cape Town for a small fee and can accommodate collection by courier or in person. Collections must be made within two weeks of purchase as we cannot hold furniture for extended periods.
As to be expected with vintage items, this item may have minor amounts of wear. All of our items are available to view prior to purchase.
Although all effort is made to lighly refurbish and clean our furniture to best represent their original state, it must be noted that the majority of the items we source date from before 1980’s. For this reason signs of their vintage condition & age might still be visible. We try to point out any visible concerns.
Please note that all items are described to the best of our ability, we strongly encourage our clients to closely inspect item photos, descriptions, and details before purchasing anything. Please review all images as they are considered part of the item description.We are happy to answer any questions you may have.
VINTAGE CONDITIONS:
excellent - Like new, exhibiting minimal to no indications of wear, with scarcely any visible signs of age or use.
very good - Light use marks and signs of age, such as minor scratches and minimal wear on areas like feet or inconspicuous spots on veneer or leather.
good - Displays light to moderate scratches, with some more noticeable blemishes. May have small damages and stains, and the possibility of ring marks. Leather may exhibit small rips.
fair - Exhibits more pronounced scratches, including lighter ones in many prominent areas (e.g., the top of a sideboard). Leather may show tears and stress marksUnfortunately we currently only deliver in Cape Town area, but you are welcome to arrange courier on your side, we can also arrange on your behalf.
Shipment outside of Cape Town is NOT calculated at check-out and is quoted based on the item's dimensions and or weight.
Unfortunately we can not reserve any items until shipping has been finalized (the item should be purchased and checked out, with payment confirmation received if paid via EFT).
After purchase, we can assist you with costs from our preferred supplier.
Please note that all items shipped outside of Cape Town are wrapped extensively, we charge a small packaging fee depending on the item, starting cost of R100 per individual item. The cost of wrapping depends on the size of the item. For ALL our items, especially fragile items, i.e. glass and mirrors we recommend professional crating.
For fragile items or items that have glass elements we don't recommend shipment and transport outside of Cape Town.
Please refer to our Shipping Policy
Restoration Process:
In our studio workshop, every item undergoes an inspection and careful restoration process. We prioritize maintaining the original charm and patina of the piece, while also making it a beautiful addition to modern interiors.
Our Approach Includes:
- Examining and reinforcing the joints
- Cleaning the wood and removing any stains
- Conducting veneer repairs as necessary
- Polishing or refinishing surfaces to enhance their appearance
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