Two 'Luisa' Armchairs by Franco Albini in Oak, Metal and Fabric, Italy, 1949

Franco Albini, Pair of Luisa Chairs, Italy, 1949

Designed by Franco Albini in 1949 and originally produced by Poggi, the Luisa Chair is one of the most iconic works of Italian postwar design. It was awarded the Compasso d’Oro in 1955 and is now part of the permanent collections at the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Triennale di Milano.

This particular set of two is made of solid oak with a naturally aged, matte surface. The design is minimal and architectural, but never rigid. There’s some play in the lines, a sense of balance without trying too hard.

One interesting feature is the armrest joint, where the vertical and horizontal pieces interlock in a stepped construction — no disguising the structure, just showing how it works. A detail that’s both functional and quietly expressive.

The legs end in slightly stompy feet — a small but deliberate choice that keeps the chairs grounded and gives them a bit of personality.

They’re upholstered in a natural cotton fabric, as seen in the photos, and still in good overall condition.

On the back, you’ll find two small black metal triangles that attach the backrest to the frame — a smart, subtle contrast to the otherwise all-wood structure.

There’s a kinship here with the postwar designs of René Gabriel: exposed joinery, oak construction, and a rational, no-nonsense approach to form and function.

Franco Albini worked alongside key figures like Gio Ponti and influenced a whole generation of Italian designers, including Paolo Buffa — both of whom helped define the visual language of modern Italian furniture.

Dimensions
Width: 56 cm
Height: 76 cm