Art Nouveau German Armchair by Richard Riemerschmid, 1920s

Exceptional 1920s Richard Riemerschmid Armchair – Icon of German Jugendstil Design A rare and historically important armchair by Richard Riemerschmid, one of the founding visionaries of the German Jugendstil and early modernist design movement. Designed in the 1920s, this piece captures the essence of Riemerschmid’s philosophy—where craftsmanship meets simplicity, and beauty is found in structure. Crafted from solid beechwood or richly stained hardwood, the chair features elegant, tapering legs and a gently curved backrest that harmonizes aesthetics with comfort. The expressive armrests arc subtly outward, showcasing Riemerschmid’s architectural approach to furniture design—clear, rational, yet poetic. Unadorned yet deeply sculptural, this armchair exemplifies the transition from Art Nouveau’s ornamental style toward the cleaner forms of modernism. Its construction emphasizes honesty in materials and a reverence for function—hallmarks of the Deutscher Werkbund, of which Riemerschmid was a central figure. The wood displays a beautifully aged patina with signs of wear consistent with its age, preserving the authenticity and soul of the piece. It remains structurally sound and can be lightly restored or preserved in its original condition depending on the collector’s preference. Dimensions: Height: 84 cm Width: 63 cm Depth: 50 cm Seat Height: 46 cm This armchair is ideal as a standalone statement piece in a curated interior or as part of a design collector’s ensemble. Furniture by Richard Riemerschmid is held in major museum collections, including MoMA and the V&A, making this a rare opportunity to acquire an authentic example of his work. A true collectible—sophisticated, timeless, and steeped in the artistic ideals of early 20th-century Germany.