Marcel Breuer joined with Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius and Isokon co-founder Jack Pritchard in the mid 1930’s. The Long Chair was Breuer’s first design for Isokon and was produced in 1936. The example we have here is from the 1960’s. It has an important and key part in the story of British Modernist design and the influence of the Bauhaus. Jack Pritchard was instrumental in both Gropius and Breuer being able to leave Germany in 1934 and 1935 respectively and move to London, before joining him at Isokon.
The frame has been sensitively restored to our usual high standard whilst respecting the age and history of the piece. All the joints are completely sound. The birch faced ply is a lovely colour and accurately represented in the photos.
We have completely re-upholstered the seat exactly as it should be and it is covered in a plain linen (90%) weave from Mark Alexander that is beautifully soft and tones very well with the wooden frame. It is also entirely in keeping with the original style of upholstery.
The Bauhaus connections are even deeper with this particular piece: It was purchased from the owner of a 1960’s Span House where it had been from new. Span Housing was co-founded by Eric Lyons in 1948. Lyons had previously worked with Bauhaus founder Walter Gropius who was himself a key part of Isokon.
