The pioneers of modern furniture design in America in the mid-20th century all had their moments of flamboyance: Charles and Ray Eames produced the startling, biomorphic La Chaise; George Nelson’s firm created the Marshmallow sofa; Edward Wormley had his decadent Listen to Me chaise. But no designer of the day steadily offered works with more verve and dynamism than Vladimir Kagan. While others, it seems, designed with suburban households in mind, Kagan aimed to suit the tastes of young, sophisticated city-dwellers. With signature designs that feature sleekly curved frames and others that have dramatic out-thrust legs, Kagan made furniture sexy.
Kagan’s father was a Russian master cabinetmaker who took his family first to Germany (where Vladimir was born) and then to New York in 1938. After studying architecture at Columbia University, Kagan opened a design firm at age 22 and immediately made a splash with his long, low and sinuous Serpentine sofa. Furniture lines such as the Tri-symmetric group of glass-topped, three-legged tables and the vivacious Contours chairs soon followed.
Kagan’s choices of form and materials evolved through subsequent decades, embracing lucite, aluminum and burl-wood veneers. By the late 1960s, Kagan was designing austere, asymmetrical cabinets and his Omnibus group of modular sofas and chairs. For all his aesthetic élan, Kagan said that throughout his career, his touchstone was comfort. “A lot of modern furniture was not comfortable. And so comfort is: form follows function. The function was to make it comfortable,” he once commented. “I created what I called vessels for the human body.”
A diverse group of bodies have made themselves at home with Kagan designs. Among the famous names who commissioned and collected his designs are Marilyn Monroe, Gary Cooper, Andy Warhol, David Lynch, Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt, and firms such as Gucci and Giorgio Armani. His work is in numerous museum collections, including those of the Victoria & Albert and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Because of its idiosyncrasy, Kagan’s work did not lend itself to mass-production. Kagan never signed on with any of the major furniture-making corporations, and examples of his designs are relatively rare. As you will see from the offerings on 1stDibs, even decades after their conception, Kagan pieces still command the eye, with their freshness, energy, sensuality and wit.
Vladimir Kagan Capricorn Dining Set for Kagan-Dreyfuss, 1950's
By Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc., Vladimir Kagan
Located in Culver City, CA
Ever seen that iconic Slim Aaron's photo? You know, the one Poolside Glamour-- if you look right in the center of the photograph, underneath the yellow umbrella, you'll see this icon...
Steel, Iron
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss Capricorn Cocktail Table, 1960c.
By Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc., Vladimir Kagan
Located in Chicago, IL
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss Capricorn Cocktail Table, 1960c. Rare indoor/outdoor cocktail table designed by Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Drey...
Metal
Vladamir Kagan "Dune" Chaise/ Daybed by Barlow Tyrie
By Barlow Tyrie, Vladimir Kagan
Located in Highland, IN
Kagan's design for Barlow Tyrie is a perfect example of his design aesthetic. The undulating, organic form that references a nautilus envelopes the sitter and provides a small table surface. The nesting ottoman...
Upholstery, Wicker
$2,800Sale Price|20% Off
Vladimir Kagan Capricorn Series Indoor Outdoor Lounge Chair
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Wayne, NJ
Vladimir Kagan Capricorn series indoor outdoor lounge chair. If you are in the New Jersey , New York City Metro Area , please contact us with your deli...
Metal
$3,900Sale Price|40% Off
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss 'Capricorn' Tiered Side Table, circa 1958
By Vladimir Kagan, Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This rare collectors piece is an early Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss 'Capricorn' tiered side table featuring a pierced enameled steel top which is reminiscent of designs by Mathi...
Steel
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss Capricorn Occasional Table, 1960c.
By Vladimir Kagan, Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc.
Located in Chicago, IL
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan-Dreyfuss Capricorn Occasional Table, 1964 Rare indoor/outdoor table from Vladimir Kagan’s iconic Capricorn series for Kagan-Dreyfuss. Features black enameled...
Metal
$1,580
H 29 in W 24 in D 20 in
Pair Indoor/outdoor Modernist Hans Wegner Style folding lounge chairs/ Jute
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in Buffalo, NY
Pair Indoor/outdoor Modernist folding lounge chairs .. Jute and teak..After the iconic Wegner masterpiece. Classic design,, Extremely comfortable. Retain original finish/patina. Nic...
Jute, Teak
$1,800 / item
H 22.38 in W 68.89 in D 27.55 in
Vintage French Style Wrought Iron Chaise Longue with Cushion
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage French style wrought iron chaise longue with cushion The wrought iron patio or porch garden chaise longue has two wheels for easy ...
Wrought Iron
$5,557 / set
H 33.08 in W 19.3 in D 22.84 in
Trinidad Teak Dining Chairs by Nanna Ditzel 1990s Set of 8
By Frederecia Furniture, Nanna Ditzel
Located in Asaa, DK
Trinidad teak dining chairs by Nanna Ditzel for Fredericia Stolefabrik Denmark 1990s When designing the Trinidad Chair Model 3298 in 199...
Teak
$4,168 / set
H 33.08 in W 19.3 in D 22.84 in
Trinidad Teak Dining Chairs by Nanna Ditzel 1990s Set of 6
By Nanna Ditzel, Frederecia Furniture
Located in Asaa, DK
Trinidad teak dining chairs by Nanna Ditzel for Fredericia Stolefabrik Denmark 1990s When designing the Trinidad Chair Model 3298 in 1993,...
Teak
$920 / item
H 43.3 in W 23.62 in D 23.62 in
Round High Top Table with Steel Base and Werzalit Top, Cocktail Table
Located in Miami, FL
Round high top table with steel base and werzalit top. Cocktail table Ideal for hospitality.
Iron
$1,650Sale Price|41% Off
H 26 in W 73 in D 30 in
Caned Dining Table by Danny Ho Fong for Tropi-cal in Iron and Rattan, c 1960s
By Danny Ho Fong, Tropi-cal
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This lovely California Modern low dining table by Danny Ho Fong for Tropi-cal features an iron frame that holds a woven cane rattan top, along with a glass pane to use as a solid surface over the caned rattan. Somewhat lower than traditional dining tables, this table would be ideal to pair with stools opposed to standard dining tables. Or another idea is using cushions to sit on, could even use low seating such as a Roche Bobois Mah Jong cushions or Togo lounge chair, loveseat or sofa. Great for patios and other outdoors spaces. This laid-back casual cool dining table...
Iron
$2,320Sale Price / set|20% Off
H 29.25 in W 25 in D 23.75 in
Set of 5 Piece Round Patio Garden Dining Table and 4 Mesh Arm Chairs
By Russell Woodard
Located in Sheffield, MA
Newly painted 40" round Mid-Century Modern Russell Woodard style wrought or cast iron base dining table with center hole for umbrella and four ...
Wrought Iron
Wrought Iron Side or Garden Table After Woodard
By Woodard Furniture Co.
Located in New York, NY
Garden, patio, poolside or sunroom side table having arched legs and top support, and a metal mesh top. Probably by Woodard, unsigned. The table is structurally sound and sturdy, the...
Wrought Iron
Woodard Wrought Iron Small Round Occasional Side Garden Patio Table Mesh Top
By Russell Woodard
Located in Clifton Forge, VA
This is a very sweet and functional small round table that would be perfect for so many uses including serving or holding food or beverages or displaying plants or other outdoor deco...
Wrought Iron
Hayworth Indoor/Outdoor Lounge Chair, by August Abode
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A winged lounge chair with a low-profile design from our Hayworth Collection. Benchmade in Los Angeles, its soft curves pair with a sturdy foundation of outdoor wood in this indoor-outdoor piece created to embrace the spirit of endless summer. Designed with functionality in mind, the upholstered back cushion and removable seat cushion are both made of outdoor dry-fast foam. The base and legs are made of solid Iroko with a frame that includes slats for drainage when used in an outdoor or poolside environment. All our outdoor upholstered pieces come standard with an ivory outdoor textile (not pictured here). They are also available as C.O.M. (Customer’s Own Materials). Dimensions: 29”H x 33.5"W × 30"D Seat Height: 17"H (front tapers down towards seat back) C.O.M. Yardage: 7 yards solid fabric Finish: Shown here in our Carbon Canyon outdoor finish. It is also available in our Rincon outdoor finish. All of our pieces are bench-made in Los Angeles by local artisans. Current lead time: 16-22 weeks + transit time. Inquire about customizations, alternate materials & finishes, coordinating outdoor cover, as well as expedite options. About this piece: + Fabric available as Ivory Outdoor Textile or COM (customer's own materials) + Fade & mildew resistant fabric is recommended for outdoor usage or in high-humidity environments. + Please inquire about yardage requirements for patterned fabrics. + COM Lead Time begins when fabric arrives, SFA approved (for custom finishes) and DFA approved (for custom sizing and designs). + Covered or protected storage is advised. Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures which may damage frame. Wood will naturally grey, fade or patina over time; exposure to the elements will expedite this inherent trait. + Available as shown in our Carbon Canyon finish, it is also available in Rincon. + Optional cover can be purchased upon request. + Coordinating ottoman sold separately and not included in the listing price. About August Abode...
Upholstery, Foam, Wood, Textile
Midcentury Metal Chaise Lounge
Located in Sheffield, MA
Reclining outdoor chaise lounge with painted black metal frame, flexible straps for added comfort. Two wheels on the chaise for easy movability.
Iron
$1,800
H 22.38 in W 68.69 in D 27.55 in
Adjustable Chaise Lounge with Wheels, Garden furniture. Indoor & Outdoor
Located in Miami, FL
Timeless design elements and smooth styling make the Forge collection a must for those with a taste for classic decor. Offered in your choice of enduring finishes and fabulous fabric...
Wrought Iron
Vladimir Kagan "Capricorn" Patio Lounge Chair
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Patio lounge chair by Vladimir Kagan, c.1950s, USA, for the Capricorn series is comprised of an iron wire frame that creates a grid-like pattern. The chair has been newly powder coat...
Iron
Sold
H 34.75 in W 18 in D 17.5 in
Matched Pair of Vladimir Kagan for Kagan Dreyfuss "Capricorn" Lounge Chairs 1950
By Vladimir Kagan, Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc.
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan Dreyfuss "Capricorn" lounge chairs 1950. Two matching tripod chairs. Early examples. Hand delivery avail to New York City or anywhere en route from Buffalo N...
Steel
Sold
H 34.75 in W 18 in D 17.5 in
Matched Pair of Vladimir Kagan for Kagan Dreyfuss "Capricorn" Lounge Chairs 1950
By Vladimir Kagan, Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc.
Located in Buffalo, NY
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan Dreyfuss "Capricorn" lounge chairs 1950. Two matching tripod chairs. Early examples. Hand delivery avail to New York City or anywhere en route from Buffalo N...
Steel
Sold
H 29 in Dm 41 in
Vladimir Kagan for Kagan Dreyfuss "Capricorn" Outdoor Dining Set 1950s, Restored
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Known for his eye-catching, modernistic, dynamic designs, Vladimir Kagan's work attracted a stream of notable design projects, along with a lengthy list of celebrity clientele, inclu...
Steel
Matched Pair of Vladimir Kagan Capricorn HIgh Back Dining Chairs, 1958
By Kagan-Dreyfuss, Inc., Vladimir Kagan
Located in Kansas City, MO
Matched pair of fully restored original Vladimir Kagan Capricorn High Back Dining Chairs from 1958. Ready to use.
Steel
Vladimir Kagan "Capricorn" Lounge Chair
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Bainbridge, NY
classic Vladimir Kagan (Kagan-Dreyfuss) Capricorn series Lounge Chair in White powder coated Steel. Great for indoor or outdoor use
Steel
Vladimir Kagan rolling "Capricorn" Chaise Lounge
By Vladimir Kagan
Located in Bainbridge, NY
White Vladimir Kagan (Kagan-Dreyfuss) Capricorn series Chaise Lounge Chair with rubber covered front wheel for easy movement. For indoor outdoor use
Steel