Conchoidal Chair without Arms (Perspective sketch)
Ludwig Mies van der Rohe
American, born Germany. 1886–1969
early 1940s
A swift pencil study of a low, armless “Conchoidal” chair in which Mies van der Rohe explores a shell‑like seating form and how it sits on simple structural supports.
You first notice the single, sweeping contour that defines seat and back, rendered with spare lines and light hatch shading and planted on stout, blocky legs that give the airy curve unexpected weight.
This early‑1940s working sketch shows Mies translating modernist principles into furniture—paring seating to essential curves and supports and reinforcing the unity of architecture and everyday design.
Medium
Pencil on paper
Dimensions
6 x 8 1/16" (15.2 x 20.5 cm)
Classification
Department
Credit
Mies van der Rohe Archive, gift of the architect
Accession
1116.1974
Palette
Art Terms
Exhibitions
