Mies van der Rohe Chairs

Mies van der Rohe is celebrated for his iconic modernist furniture designs, most notably the Barcelona, MR, and Brno chairs, which are often discovered at estate sales and present valuable opportunities for discerning buyers.

A Legacy of Modernism

Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, a pioneering German architect and Bauhaus leader, revolutionized furniture design with a minimalist, “less is more” philosophy. His most famous chairs include the Barcelona Chair, crafted with partner Lilly Reich for the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition, the cantilevered MR chairs, and the sleek Brno and Tugendhat chairs for the Tugendhat House. These pieces have become design icons, blending industrial materials with luxury and simplicity.

Identifying Authentic Designs

Authentic Mies van der Rohe chairs can be recognized by their distinctive steel frames, high-quality leather upholstery, and minimalist forms. Official Barcelona Chairs are stamped with the KnollStudio logo and Mies’s signature on the base, made of hand-buffed chrome and leather cushions cut from a single hide. The MR and Brno chairs feature tubular or flat steel cantilever frames and leather seating, with original production dating back to the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Determining Value and Sought-After Examples

Estate sale shoppers may find substantial value in Mies van der Rohe originals or early licensed models, which often fetch premium resale prices on the collector market. The Barcelona Chair, especially originals or models from Knoll produced to Mies's specs, is highly sought after. MR and Brno chairs from the early Werkbund or Bauhaus periods command strong interest among Modernist collectors. Verify provenance and manufacturer stamps for the highest potential value.

Condition

The value of these chairs at estate sales depends heavily on condition: look for intact leather upholstery with minimal tears, all-original chrome frames with little pitting, and preserved stamps or manufacturer marks. Pigskin upholstery and seamless welded stainless steel indicate early, more valuable editions. Avoid chairs with structural damage or excessive restoration, as originality boosts desirability.

Care and Storage Tips

To maintain value, clean the leather regularly with dedicated cream and avoid harsh chemicals; ensure the chrome or stainless steel frames are polished and covered when not in use. Store chairs away from direct sunlight and humidity to prevent fading and rust. With proper care, a Mies van der Rohe chair not only remains a striking piece of design history but can be a standout investment for estate sale enthusiasts.