Paul Evans Rare Sculptural Forged Steel Lounge Chairs

New Hope, Pennsylvania, Circa 1965

Among the most iconic expressions of twentieth-century American Studio Craft, this exceptional pair of sculptural lounge chairs was handcrafted by Paul Evans during his celebrated Sculptured Metal period in the mid-1960s. Created in his New Hope, Pennsylvania studio, the chairs exemplify Evans’ revolutionary approach to furniture design, where functional objects transcend their purpose to become monumental works of sculpture.

Each chair is individually fabricated from forged, welded, patinated, and polychromed steel, revealing the unmistakable hand of the craftsman in every hammered surface, welded joint, and richly textured finish. The dramatic architectural bases create the illusion of floating upholstered forms while showcasing Evans’ extraordinary ability to transform industrial materials into works of enduring artistic significance.

Retaining their original vibrant orange crushed velvet upholstery, the chairs remain in exceptional original condition, preserving both their original sculptural patinated steel finish and beautifully maintained upholstery—an increasingly rare distinction for examples of this period. The richly textured velvet provides a striking contrast to the dark forged steel, highlighting the bold geometry and sculptural presence that have made Evans one of the most celebrated designers of the twentieth century.

Viewed from every angle, the chairs reveal a constantly evolving interplay of mass, negative space, light, and shadow. Their commanding presence allows them to function equally as exceptional seating and museum-quality sculpture, making them ideal for collectors, architects, and discerning interiors where design and art converge.

Paul Evans’ early handcrafted works are widely regarded as the pinnacle of his career and remain among the most coveted examples of American collectible design. Produced in extremely limited numbers and individually fabricated by hand, surviving matching pairs in untouched original condition have become increasingly scarce, particularly those preserving both their original patinated steel finish and factory upholstery.

An extraordinary opportunity to acquire an investment-quality pair representing one of the defining achievements of American collectible design.

Details

• Designer: Paul Evans (1931–1987)
• Origin: New Hope, Pennsylvania, USA
• Date: Circa 1965
• Materials: Forged, welded, patinated, and polychromed steel
• Upholstery: Original orange crushed velvet
• Condition: Exceptional original condition, retaining its original orange crushed velvet upholstery and original sculptural patinated steel finish.
• Sold As: Pair

Dimensions (Each):

• Height: 28 in (71.1 cm)
• Width: 31 in (78.7 cm)
• Depth: 26 in (66 cm)

SHIPPING & DELIVERY

Shipping is not included in the listed purchase price. Following your purchase, Studio 49 will contact you by email to arrange delivery and provide a personalized shipping quote based on your location. Shipping charges will be invoiced separately and must be paid before the item is dispatched. Local pickup in Austin, Texas, may also be arranged.