Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega Set of Six Dining Chairs in Oak

Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega, set of six dining chairs, oak, beech, fabric, Italy, 1930s

Designed by Ernesto Valabrega for Vittorio Valabrega in the 1930s, this set of dining chairs is a fine example of Italian craftsmanship from the period. Made from oak and beech, the chairs feature the characteristic X-shaped backrest with bold decorative studs that highlight the structure and give the design a distinctive rhythm. The lining of the fabric and the backrests are both finished with brass nails, adding a refined and tactile detail that enhances the chairs’ artisanal character. The solid wood frames and the subtle carved accents along the legs and stretchers bring texture and depth to the design without excess ornamentation. The warm tones of the oak and beech pair beautifully with the textured upholstery, resulting in a balanced and timeless composition. These chairs reflect the Italian Art Deco and Rationalist influences of the time, balanced, well-proportioned, and thoughtfully constructed, capturing both the strength and elegance that defined the Valabrega workshop’s furniture.

Italian designer Ernesto Valabrega (1901-1944) was born in Turin, as the son of celebrated designer and cabinetmaker Vittorio Valabrega (1861-1952).

His father Vittorio was, together with his brother, the founder of Fratelli Valabrega (Valabrega Brothers Company, since 1884) that was situated in Turin. During the 1890s, Vittorio became the sole owner of the company and had great success with his refined wooden furniture. Vittorio Valabrega became well-known for his furniture in the floral Art Nouveau style, but as a true child of the 19th century, his company also manufactured furniture in Neo-Renaissance and the French Rococo Louis XV-style. His designs received positive attention and were awarded at World Exhibitions. At the famous exhibition in Paris in 1900, Vittorio even received a gold medal.

It was at the age of 24 that Ernesto got on board with his father’s business. His involvement from 1925 onwards had a great impact on the company. Ernesto decided to change the company’s name to Mobilart in 1928 and radically redirected the course. Whereas Vittorio was inspired by a variety of contemporary and historic styles, Ernesto chose for a different approach. He renounced the 19th century mixture of styles and approached furniture design in the same manner as the highly influential William Morris of the English Arts and Crafts movement. Their reform was an artistic reaction to the widespread industrialization of the 19th century.

Ernesto despised products of poor quality and chose high quality materials that would last a lifetime. The furniture he created in the late 1920s and 1930s are a true testament to his beliefs. With his irregular carvings of oakwood, the hammered hinges, flowing edges, embossed surfaces his furniture shows quality, attention to detail and ultimate craftsmanship.