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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.

Item Location

This item is located in our warehouse.

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Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes from our Showroom in Chicago's River West Neighborhood. Please click here to schedule a viewing.

Shipping, Delivery, and Pick Up

This item ships via White Glove Delivery

South Loop Loft ships throughout the Chicagoland area and Nationwide. For products that can be shipped via UPS, the shipping price will calculate at check out. For large scale pieces, the cost of shipping or delivery is not included in the purchase price.

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We provide:

  • Local Pickup at our Chicago Showroom
  • Local White Glove Delivery in the Chicago - Land and Surrounding Area
  • Nationwide White Glove Delivery
  • Professional Packaging UPS Shipping of Small and Medium Sized Items
  • A team of experienced professionals dedicated to ensuring your item arrives safely.

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Returns

All Sales Are Final. If you have any hesitation prior to purchase or would like more details, we would love to share more photos and answer any questions!  South Loop Loft neither assumes nor offers any warranty on vintage, or refinished/reupholstered items after items leave our showroom. View our full policy here.

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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