Pair of armchairs “Buenos Aires” Josef Hoffmann J. & J. Kohn Wien ca. 1910

The armchair, known as the Buenos Aires Model, was first presented at the Exposición Internacional del Centenario in Buenos Aires in 1910—showcased in the pavilion of Jacob & Josef Kohn, where a variety of Josef Hoffmann’s designs were displayed.
In fact, Hoffmann designed the seating set, which includes this armchair, as early as 1905. Model number 675 first appeared in the 1906 catalog and has since been featured in all subsequent publications of the company. It was already marketed as studio furniture in the brochure for the London Exhibition of the same year.
This design combines characteristic elements of Hoffmann’s style: the compact barrel shape is visually softened by side cutouts in the armrests, lending the otherwise substantial armchairs an unexpected lightness.
At the same time, the craftsmanship highlights the sophisticated use of bentwood techniques: the curved backrest, made from plywood, is framed by a padded top and gracefully curved bentwood elements. Visible decorative rivets further embellish and structure the backrest in an elegant manner.
With the Buenos Aires seating set, Josef Hoffmann created one of his most iconic and enduring designs for the bentwood furniture company J. & J. Kohn.