Innovative Early NZ Curved Plywood Rocking Chair
This cute and innovative plywood rocking chair would have caused quite a stir on it's release in the 1940s. Compared to the bulky, heavy set and often highly decorative lounge furniture of the past, this design is thoroughly modern in conception.
The design embraces the qualities that progressive designers and architects believed were foundational in modern design including simplicity, honest use of materials and a lightness of form. Plywood had traditionally been hidden inside layers of upholstery but in this design it is celebrated.
The designer of this chair is unknown but it is clearly the work of a talented maker. The curved plywood seat would have needed a custom press to form it. It could be an early work by celebrated NZ designer Garth Chester as he is known to have produced a number of curved plywood chairs.
Each piece is checked and carefully hand restored at our Kingsland studio workshop. Our focus is preserving the character and patina of the design while ensuring it displays beautifully in a contemporary interior.
Each piece is checked and carefully restored at our Kingsland studio workshop. Our focus is preserving the character and patina of the design while ensuring it displays beautifully in a contemporary interior.
- Joints checked and reglued
- Timber cleaned and stains removed
- Veneer repairs if needed
- Surfaces polished / refinished
The items showcased in our gallery are constantly changing – not all items are on display at once.
Please enquire if there is a specific piece you would like to view and we’ll make sure it’s in the gallery.
All pieces are available for collection in person from our Ponsonby gallery. We are also happy to provide a quote for delivery throughout New Zealand.
Please enquire for delivery options.
Innovative Early NZ Curved Plywood Rocking Chair
Note: We showcase a curated edit from the Mr. Bigglesworthy catalogue. Please contact us to view specific items.
