Emile Guillot for Thonet – Tubular Steel Modernist Armchair

Armchair in tubular steel, of the Bauhaus period (1919–1933). Designed by Emile Guillot (1890–1956) and produced by Thonet (established 1819–present), the chair exemplifies the early Modernist movement’s embrace of industrial materials and structural clarity. The shaped headrest, arms and seat are in ebonised beech, their dark tone contrasting with the steel frame.

The continuous tubular construction provides both strength and visual lightness, looping in a single geometric circuit that defines seat and back. The design reflects Thonet’s transition from bentwood to tubular steel production, merging precision manufacture with the sculptural restraint of inter-war design. The chair expresses the Modernist belief in form through function and remains a confident example of Bauhaus-era craftsmanship.