Modernist Chrome & Birch-Veneer Chair by Werner West - Finland, 1930

A rare Finnish modernist cantilever chair designed by Werner West and produced by W. Schauman in Jyväskylä around 1930. The design combines Bauhaus functionality with Finnish craftsmanship - a tubular chrome frame supporting a curved birch-veneer seat and backrest. The continuous line of the frame gives it a light, floating appearance, while the warm birch adds balance and character.

This piece follows the same structural principles as Mart Stam’s and Marcel Breuer’s early cantilever models, yet it has a distinctly Finnish twist: softer curves, more organic proportions, and that unmistakable birch glow.

A timeless and highly collectible piece of Finnish design history. Works beautifully as a standalone accent chair or as part of a dining set.

✦ Height 80 cm, width 46 cm
✦ Seat height 45 cm
✦ Chromed steel frame, bent birch plywood seat and back
✦ Designer: Werner West (1890–1959)
✦ Manufacturer: W. Schauman vaneritehdas Oy
✦ Origin: Jyväskylä, Finland
✦ Period: 1930
✦ Good vintage condition: structurally solid with visible surface wear consistent with age

ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Werner West (1890–1959) was one of Finland’s early modernists, known for bridging functionalism and Nordic material sensibility. A pioneer of furniture design and interior architecture, he collaborated with Alvar Aalto and was instrumental in bringing bent plywood and tubular steel techniques into Finnish production through his work with W. Schauman. His designs combine rational structure with a quiet warmth that still defines Finnish modernism today.

DELIVERY OR STORE PICK-UP ONLY
This piece is too large to ship by post, but we offer two easy and free options:
➤ Free doorstep delivery to Helsinki and nearby areas is available - just send us a quick message (email, Instagram DM, or the chat box here on the site) to check and confirm. Other areas in Southern Finland may also be possible at no extra cost. 
➤ Free pick-up from our store in Karjaa - just choose this location at checkout. Please note: pick-up from Helsinki is not available for this item, as it is too large to be stored at our pick-up point.