Friso Kramer Revolt chairs Ahrend duo tone Netherlands 1953

Friso Kramer

Netherlands 1922 – 2019
Industrial designer

This set of four rare duo-tone Revolt chairs, designed by Friso Kramer for Ahrend de Cirkel in Holland in 1953, is a fine example of Dutch industrial design. Although the Revolt chair was originally designed in 1953, production began in 1958, with these particular chairs being manufactured in the 1960s. Known for their durability and timeless appeal, these chairs showcase Kramer’s forward-thinking approach to functional design.

The Revolt chairs feature a sturdy folded metal base, offering exceptional strength and stability. The frames have been professionally powder-coated in their original black, ensuring a fresh and authentic appearance. The seats and backs are made of Ciranol, a durable synthetic material, with a unique and sought-after duo-tone combination—black seats and olive green backs. This color pairing is rare, as Friso Kramer’s original concept envisioned the chairs in a single color. However, to accommodate commercial demand, Ahrend de Cirkel offered customizable color combinations, making these chairs an uncommon find.

These chairs are in very good vintage condition, with minimal surface wear consistent with age and use. The seats and backs remain smooth and comfortable, preserving their ergonomic integrity. The subtle signs of wear add to the character of the pieces, while their overall presentation is exceptionally clean and well-maintained.

Friso Kramer’s designs are highly valued for their progressive and functionalist approach. His design philosophy focused on creating well-considered and meticulously executed pieces. Despite being produced in large numbers, each design underwent an intensive development process, resulting in furniture with lasting ergonomic and aesthetic appeal. The Revolt chair remains in production today, a testament to its enduring design, with only minor updates to the materials while maintaining Kramer’s original form.

As specialists in the industrial designs of Friso Kramer, we have curated an extensive collection of his work. If you are interested in exploring more of his iconic designs, please do not hesitate to contact us with your specific requests.