Thonet B9 Beech Bentwood and Caning Dining Chairs, Set of 4

Thonet's significance as a furniture manufacturer lies in its pioneering use of bentwood technology, revolutionizing furniture design in the 19th century. The company's innovative bentwood technique allowed for mass production of stylish and durable furniture pieces. in 1861, Michael Thonet would found his Bystřice pod Hostýnem factory in the country formerly known as Czechoslovakia. It was there that countless notable Thonet bentwood designs were manufactured in-mass, including these famed B9 dining chairs, which exhibit “Made in Czechoslovakia” markings.

The B9 dining chair is not just celebrated for its timelessness and everlasting appeal. It would also come to be known as the “Corbusier Chair” as the renown French architect Le Corbusier considered their international ubiquity as nobility. The sleek bentwood and lightweight design characterized by its curved backrest and gracefully curved legs are only elements which Thonet could produce in their time. The chair’s elegance paired with the excitement of Le Corbusier have enshrined the B9 design in history and protected its relevance, thus today it is considered timeless.

This shown set of four Thonet dining chairs are c. 1960 and remain in their original condition. While showing minor wear consistent with age and history, we find this patina to only add to the chairs’ elegance.