In the library I work in, we have tons of these Saarinen side chairs (vinyl upholstery, tubular black metal legs) such as the ones in the web link I've included in this message. There is no maker on any of the chairs I found. Just a sticker on each chair with VR####, where #### is a sequential number. Each chair has a different number, so I'm reasonably certain that this isn't a model number...probably a serial number.
We also have some Florence Knoll lounge seating units with two vinyl-upholstered chairs flanking a low square laminate table (attached). The tables connecting the two chairs have the Knoll label on them.
I've also seen a few Saarinen-style stools with black bases, also with no markings on them.
Given that they have some genuine Knoll furniture from the same era as the chairs, I was wondering if Knoll produced chairs in mass quantities without labels for institutions such as libraries, schools, etc? I took pics for you to see. Let me know what you all think.
fm
http://hivemodern.com/products/?view=sub_product&sid=1265&cid=154&cid2=297
Many of the chairs are in...
I'm assuming it's naugahyde, though I don't know what the difference between that and vinyl is (if any). Many of the chairs are in great condition. We're adding an addition to the library, and for the time being, the furniture will go with it. Eventually it will be surplussed. When that happens, I plan on making a few purchases.
fm
go get it!
institutions usualy ordered contract furniture through one or to manufacturers. it was cheaper and they were able to deliver large orders without problems. looks like your furniture is all knoll. those stickers fall off at the drop of a hat, but i bet they all had one at delivery time. often there was more than one order, so you may have different vintages of furniture. look for desk knoll accesories, letter trays, ash trays etc....also the ladies room usualy has a daybeb or bench. the ladies room at a local restaurant had a white vynal marshmellow sofa............
James,
James,
Yep, I did the very same thing...got on my knees to check the settee. They seem to be the only things in the library that have labels. There are a few of the stools about, but you're right...there used to be a lot more. Too bad all the bases are black...never really cared for black tulips.
fm
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