Artek 402 Armchair Pair with Black Upholstery by Alvar Aalto

Artek Armchair 402 is a Finnish birch armchair designed by Alvar Aalto in 1933. These examples date from the 1960s and combine a gently reclined profile with a light, cantilevered frame suited to relaxed seating.

Aalto presented Armchair 402 at the Milan Triennale in 1933. The model forms part of his exploration of bent wood, using the resilience of laminated birch to support an upholstered seat and back while retaining an upright, balanced posture.

The frame is made from form-bent birch lamella with a clear natural finish. Black fabric upholstery covers the cushioned seat and back, while the continuous runners rise into softly curved armrests and give the chair its distinctive flowing outline.

Two matching vintage chairs are offered together as one pair. The pair is sold and priced as a single set, combining two consistent examples of the same design for use within one interior.

Measuring 60 cm wide, each chair has a compact footprint that works well in living rooms, bedrooms, reading areas or reception spaces. The pale birch and black upholstery create a restrained contrast, while the low seat and sweeping frame give the design a calm architectural presence.