Preliminary identification

Eames-Style Molded Plywood Lounge Chair and Ottoman

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a mid-century modern style lounge chair and matching ottoman, heavily inspired by the iconic 1956 design by Charles and Ray Eames. It features molded plywood shells with a warm wood grain veneer, upholstered in tufted dark brown leather-like material, and set on cast metal swivel bases.

Story

In 1956, designers Charles and Ray Eames set out to create a chair with the 'warm, receptive look of a well-used first baseman's mitt.' It debuted on national television and instantly redefined luxury seating for the modern era.

Maker / Origin

Charles and Ray Eames were a husband-and-wife design team whose pioneering work in molded plywood, fiberglass, and plastics revolutionized post-war industrial design. Their partnership with the Herman Miller furniture company produced some of the most enduring design icons of the 20th century, blending high art with mass production.

Condition & Value

The chair and ottoman show moderate vintage wear. There is visible scuffing and light cracking on the leather/vinyl upholstery, particularly on the ottoman surface and armrests, and some oxidation on the metal bases.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.