Japan / Circa 1970s
Size : W1470 D550 H680 SH410 mm
Item Number : 16_90
Price Upon Request
Akita Mokko Vintage 2P Lounge Chair
Design: Isamu Kenmochi
Produced by Akita Mokko, Japan’s only specialist bentwood furniture manufacturer, the No.80 lounge chair is one of the most celebrated works by Isamu Kenmochi, a leading figure of postwar Japanese modern design.
Designed in 1964 and introduced into production the same year, the chair was later featured in The World of Isamu Kenmochi and remained in production until 1991, a testament to its enduring appeal and timeless design.
During the 1950s and 1960s, Japanese designers looked to Scandinavian modernism for inspiration, embracing its emphasis on functionality, craftsmanship, and human-centered living. Kenmochi was among the pioneers who absorbed these ideas and translated them into forms uniquely suited to Japanese architecture and lifestyles.
The defining feature of the No.80 is its elegantly curved bentwood frame. Flowing seamlessly from the backrest into the armrests, the continuous arc showcases Akita Mokko’s exceptional woodworking expertise. The design possesses a remarkable sense of movement and lightness, despite its solid construction.
At the same time, the rhythmic arrangement of vertical wooden slats evokes the architectural language of traditional Japanese latticework, creating a subtle dialogue between Scandinavian organic forms and Japanese restraint.
Even the feet were thoughtfully designed to be gentle on tatami flooring, reflecting Kenmochi’s commitment to creating modern furniture that remained deeply connected to Japanese ways of living.
More than half a century after its creation, the No.80 retains a striking sense of relevance. Its graceful silhouette, refined proportions, and honest use of materials continue to resonate in contemporary interiors.
A masterful synthesis of Scandinavian influence, Japanese craftsmanship, and Isamu Kenmochi’s enduring vision of modern living.
