Mid century Zebra Tank armchair model 400 by Alvar Aalto for Artek, Finland 1970s

The 400 Tank armchair is one of the most beautiful chairs designed by Alvar Aalto. Its lightness and structural genius are without compare. Admired as much for its sculptural presence as for its comfort, the 400 Tank Chair by Alvar Aalto is a tour de force in bentwood that seems to test the limits of plywood manufacturing. Thoughtfully created, its bent arms, solid wood frame made of form-bent birch lamella, and classic zebra-print upholstered foam cushion with metal springs give the armchair a substantial and comfortable feel. The low-slung sled base has earned it the nickname of the "tank". Part of design history, this piece can be viewed in the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection. Made in Finland by Artek with an uncompromising approach to craftsmanship. A favorite since the 1930s, this early example is quite unique in the fact that it remains untouched and in original condition with normal wear and tear (please see the last picture for more details), it can be reupholstered in a fabric of your choice by us or left as is, we would leave it exactly as it is. Alvar Aalto Finnish 1898-1976 Biography One of the founders of Artek was born in kuortane, Finland. Alvar Aalto is recognized today as one of the great masters of modern architecture. during his long and prolific career, Aalto’s work embraced almost all key public institutions - town halls, theatres, churches, libraries, and universities - as well as standardized housing and private homes. Aalto’s architecture is distinctively Finnish. it is marked by a warm humanity and strong individuality. his buildings derive their special aesthetic character from their dynamic relationship with their natural surroundings, their human scale, superbly executed details, unique treatment of materials, and ingenious use of lighting. like all great art, however, Aalto’s architecture transcends national boundaries. his work is not the exclusive property of Finland: it forms a part of a common cultural heritage of European and worldwide significance. Alvar Aalto began designing furnishings as a natural and important extension of his architectural thinking. his first modern piece of furniture was created in 1931-32 for the tuberculosis sanatorium in paimio, which proved to be his international breakthrough. Artek was set up in 1935 to market and sell Alvar and Aino Aalto’s furniture, lamps, and textiles, particularly on international markets where Artek focused its operations from the initial stages. Through the innovations in form and line that were born in his furniture designs, Alvar Aalto’s name has also become important in the history of design, in fact, Aalto first achieved fame in continental Europe as a furniture designer, and only later on as an architect. His contribution to furniture design was among his foremost achievements in its own right, and it sowed the seed from which many of his architectural ideas sprang forth. Alvar Aalto’s furniture and lighting pieces form the basis of the Artek range.