Space Age Stool, Emsa, Germany, 1960s

Description

An iconic stool manufactured by the German maker Emsa in the 1960s. It is an excellent example of German Space Age design—a movement inspired by visions of the future, technology, and cosmic aesthetics. Produced in West Germany by Emsa, the model combines lightness of form, a modern material, and bold use of colour, making it today one of the most recognisable examples of everyday design from that era. The stool’s form is the quintessence of the late 1960s: futuristic and organic, with fluid lines reminiscent of the designs of Eero Aarnio and Joe Colombo. The stool is made of moulded plastic (ABS), typical of 1960s modernism. Its modular construction allowed the upper part (seat) to be separated from the base, making it practical to transport and use. The slender, chalice-shaped base flows smoothly into a perfectly circular seat, creating a compact and harmonious silhouette. The version in shades of blue, from pastel blue to cool navy, gives the design freshness and elegance while retaining its distinctive, cosmic charm. This colour works beautifully with the glossy plastic surface, emphasising the highlights and rounded contours of the form. The Space Age style championed optimism, experimentation, and the rejection of traditional materials—and all of this is evident in the design. Futuristic aesthetics combined with everyday functionality. The Emsa stool is an exceptionally versatile piece of furniture: it can serve as a stool, occasional table, container, or decorative element. Thanks to its compact size and light weight, it works perfectly in a wide range of interiors.

The seat height is 44 cm.

Emsa is a German manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1949. Initially, it specialised in producing small household goods made of plastic. It quickly gained recognition for its innovative design and high quality of workmanship. In the 1960s and 1970s, Emsa was one of the pioneers in experimenting with synthetic materials in furniture and functional design. It was during this period that the iconic Space Age stools and tabourets were created, expressing the optimism and fascination with the future characteristic of modernism at the time. The brand’s philosophy was always based on combining functionality, durability, and aesthetics. Emsa objects were intended not only to serve everyday needs, but also to please the eye and bring a touch of colour and modernity to interiors. Today, Emsa is still active in Germany, producing household goods and kitchen accessories, but its designs from the 1960s and 1970s have become icons of vintage design, sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of the Space Age style worldwide.

The stool has been preserved in its original vintage condition. It has minor signs of use related to age, including scratches and chips.