Italian “Papa Bear” Velvet Armchair, 1950s - 2 Available

$8,000.00

An Italian lounge chair, dating to the 1950s.

Its silhouette echoes the lines of Johannes Andersen’s celebrated “Papa Bear” form, though interpreted here through a distinctly Italian lens—lighter in gesture, softer in proportion, and deeply attentive to comfort. The sweeping arms curve outward with a sense of invitation, while the high back tapers gently upward, creating a profile that feels both protective and refined.

Upholstered in velvet, the surface absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving the chair a depth that shifts throughout the day. The fabric softens the angularity of the frame, while subtle button tufting across the backrest introduces rhythm without excess ornamentation. Beneath, tapered conical wooden legs lift the chair lightly from the floor, reinforcing the balance between solidity and elegance that defined many Italian interiors of the period.

Though generous in comfort, the proportions remain controlled. A piece that reflects the optimism of 1950s Italian design—something warmer, more tactile, and deeply connected to the experience of living with objects over time.

Sold and priced individually.

DIMENSIONS: 37"W x 34"D x 34"H

ADDITIONAL DIMENSIONS: 25.5"AH

ORIGIN: Italy

PERIOD: 1950s

MATERIALS: Velvet,Wood

CONDITION: In great vintage condition with a soft, natural patina to the wood base. This chair has been newly reupholstered in velvet by our in-house team of restorationists, with careful attention to the original proportions and construction.

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This item ships via White Glove Delivery.

White Glove Delivery

Our White Glove service includes delivery inside the home (including one flight of stairs).  Once the shippers are in your region, they will contact you beforehand to provide the delivery day and time window. Standard lead time is 3-5 weeks.

Ensure a clear path and be available to sign for the delivery.  The team cannot move existing furniture. Rural deliveries may experience longer wait times due to limited routing.  Alert us if there are additional stairs, COI requirements or other unique circumstances.

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In-stock inventory ships via UPS, USPS, or FedEx within 5-10 business days (excluding holidays). Rates are calculated based on the full order value, size and region.

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Local Delivery: If your delivery address is within a 20 mile radius of Chicago, 60642, Local Delivery charges will apply at checkout. 

Local Pickup: Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your pickup, so our team can have your purchase ready. 

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Italian “Papa Bear” Velvet Armchair, 1950s - 2 Available

An Italian lounge chair, dating to the 1950s.

Its silhouette echoes the lines of Johannes Andersen’s celebrated “Papa Bear” form, though interpreted here through a distinctly Italian lens—lighter in gesture, softer in proportion, and deeply attentive to comfort. The sweeping arms curve outward with a sense of invitation, while the high back tapers gently upward, creating a profile that feels both protective and refined.

Upholstered in velvet, the surface absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving the chair a depth that shifts throughout the day. The fabric softens the angularity of the frame, while subtle button tufting across the backrest introduces rhythm without excess ornamentation. Beneath, tapered conical wooden legs lift the chair lightly from the floor, reinforcing the balance between solidity and elegance that defined many Italian interiors of the period.

Though generous in comfort, the proportions remain controlled. A piece that reflects the optimism of 1950s Italian design—something warmer, more tactile, and deeply connected to the experience of living with objects over time.

Sold and priced individually.

Dimensions
Width: 37"
Depth: 34"
Height: 34"
Additional Dimensions: 25.5"AH
Origin: Italy
Period: 1950s
Materials: Velvet,Wood
Condition
In great vintage condition with a soft, natural patina to the wood base. This chair has been newly reupholstered in velvet by our in-house team of restorationists, with careful attention to the original proportions and construction.

685 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642 | southlooploft.com | (312) 291-8479