“This elegant 'Armchair No. 8' by Otto Mäkilä showcases the Finnish artist's lesser-known design work, a striking contrast to his powerful graphic art exploring themes of war and human struggle.”
Step into the world of Finnish design with Otto Mäkilä's 'Armchair No. 8,' a stunning example of early 20th-century craftsmanship. While Mäkilä is primarily known for his evocative drypoints, lithographs, and woodcuts, often exploring themes of war, death, and social commentary, this armchair reveals a different facet of his artistic output. Born in 1904, Mäkilä's design work, like this piece, showcases his versatility and engagement with the broader artistic movements of his time. The armchair's elegant form, crafted from polished walnut, mother-of-pearl, and brass, with a luxurious leather seat, speaks to a period of refined modernism. It stands in contrast to the stark emotional intensity of his graphic works, such as 'Murder' or 'Dead Soldier' from his 'Death and Resurrection' series, demonstrating an artist capable of both profound social critique and exquisite functional design. This piece invites us to consider the range of an artist's practice and the different ways they engage with material and form.
- Date
- 1898
- Medium
- Polished walnut, mother–of–pearl, and brass with leather seat
- Location
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Dimensions
- 90.2 × 66 × 59.1 cm (35 1/2 × 26 × 23 1/4 in.)
What to Notice
Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
The warm luster of the polished walnut wood
Subtle mother-of-pearl inlay details
Gleaming brass accents on the frame
The rich texture of the leather seat
1 more detail is waiting.
See all 5 in Art Whisper →Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through Armchair No. 8 — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.