First-Generation Example with 3-Screw Back, Boot glides on the Ottoman, Round Cushions clips, Down feather cushions, and Bronze swivel bushing.
This exceptional early 1956 Eames Lounge Chair & Ottoman represents one of the earliest production examples of the iconic design introduced by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. This chair has been refinished and oiled with Gunstock by Herman Miller just as the chair would have been finished in 1956.
Firmly rooted in first-year manufacturing, this chair retains several highly sought-after first-generation construction details that were quickly phased out in later production:
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3-screw armrest
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Bronze bushings at the back supports
- Early production hardware and proportions
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Brazilian rosewood shells with strong, highly figured grain
- Finished in Herman Millers 1950s Gunstock oil from old-new stock oil
- Ottoman with Boot glides
- Herman Miller Label to underside of chair
These features place this chair squarely within the earliest 1956 production period, making it a true first-generation Eames Lounge Chair. Surviving examples that retain this combination of early details are increasingly rare and highly desirable among collectors of authentic mid-century modern furniture.
The Brazilian rosewood shells display dramatic grain patterning with rich tonal variation. The proportions and hardware details further reinforce its status as a first-year example.
Why Early 1956 Eames Lounge Chairs Matter
The Eames Lounge Chair is widely regarded as the most important lounge chair of the 20th century. Introduced in 1956, it redefined modern luxury seating by combining molded plywood technology, premium materials, and mass production in an entirely new way.
First-year examples are considered the equivalent of a “first edition” in the design world. Collectors actively seek early 3-screw with bronze bushings and boot glides, as these features were replaced shortly after initial production began. Some of these early chairs were made in small batches in Venice, CA not far form the Eames office.
For serious collectors, and investors in authentic mid-century modern design, early 1956 Eames Lounge Chairs represent historical significance, design purity, and strong long-term collectibility.
Condition
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Newly upholstered in premium Italian leather with down feathers
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Down-filled cushions for exceptional comfort
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Beautifully restored Brazilian rosewood shells finished in Hand Oiled Herman Miller Gunstock Oil.
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Structurally sound and ready for daily use (four new shock mounts installed)
This early first-generation Eames Lounge Chair offers the rare opportunity to own a foundational piece of modern design history — both museum-worthy and meant to be lived with.
Contact us to learn more or to experience this iconic 1956 Eames Lounge Chair in person.
Note: This chair was previously photographed with the wrong ottoman we have fixed that issue. The ottoman pictured is the correct ottoman for this chair.
