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An exceptional early vintage example of one of the most iconic and enduring designs of the American Mid-Century Modern period: the George Nelson Slat Bench for Herman Miller.
Originally designed by George Nelson in 1946, the Slat Bench is a masterclass in simplicity, proportion, and architectural form. Its long, low silhouette is constructed from a rhythmic series of narrow wood slats, creating an elegant interplay between solid material and negative space. The top rests on Nelson’s distinctive black lacquered U-shaped legs, giving the bench a remarkably light and graphic presence despite its substantial 68-inch length.
This particular example is especially desirable for its early production and wonderfully authentic vintage character. An original Herman Miller foil label remains affixed to the underside, indicating production from the early 1950s. Beautiful exposed joinery can be seen throughout the perimeter of the bench, revealing the craftsmanship behind Nelson’s deceptively simple design.
The bench is currently presented in its vintage, unrestored condition, showing considerable evidence of its more than seven decades of use. The wood retains a warm, aged surface with scratches, marks, finish variation, discoloration, and other signs of wear, while the original black lacquered legs display their own history and patina. For a collector who appreciates untouched vintage furniture, these imperfections give the bench tremendous character and authenticity.
For a client who prefers a more refined appearance, Hobbs Modern can fully restore the bench if desired. Our restoration workshop can carefully address the wood slats, joinery, and black lacquered base while respecting the integrity, construction, and historical character of the original George Nelson design. Please inquire regarding restoration options.
The Nelson Slat Bench is arguably one of the single most recognizable benches of the Mid-Century Modern era. Its versatility was part of Nelson’s brilliance: the design can function as seating, a low coffee table, a display platform, or simply as a sculptural architectural element within a room. More than 75 years after its introduction, the design remains remarkably modern.
For collectors, the combination of early Herman Miller production, original foil label, long 68.25-inch form, classic black lacquered legs, exposed joinery, and authentic vintage patina makes this an especially compelling example of an American modernist icon.
Designer: George Nelson
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Design Date: 1946
Production: Early 1950s
Origin: United States
Materials: Wood, black lacquered wood
Dimensions: 68.25” L × 18.5” W × 14.125” H
Condition: Vintage, unrestored condition with substantial age-appropriate wear and patina throughout. Original early Herman Miller foil label remains intact. Restoration by Hobbs Modern is available upon request.
An exceptional early vintage example of one of the most iconic and enduring designs of the American Mid-Century Modern period: the George Nelson Slat Bench for Herman Miller.
Originally designed by George Nelson in 1946, the Slat Bench is a masterclass in simplicity, proportion, and architectural form. Its long, low silhouette is constructed from a rhythmic series of narrow wood slats, creating an elegant interplay between solid material and negative space. The top rests on Nelson’s distinctive black lacquered U-shaped legs, giving the bench a remarkably light and graphic presence despite its substantial 68-inch length.
This particular example is especially desirable for its early production and wonderfully authentic vintage character. An original Herman Miller foil label remains affixed to the underside, indicating production from the early 1950s. Beautiful exposed joinery can be seen throughout the perimeter of the bench, revealing the craftsmanship behind Nelson’s deceptively simple design.
The bench is currently presented in its vintage, unrestored condition, showing considerable evidence of its more than seven decades of use. The wood retains a warm, aged surface with scratches, marks, finish variation, discoloration, and other signs of wear, while the original black lacquered legs display their own history and patina. For a collector who appreciates untouched vintage furniture, these imperfections give the bench tremendous character and authenticity.
For a client who prefers a more refined appearance, Hobbs Modern can fully restore the bench if desired. Our restoration workshop can carefully address the wood slats, joinery, and black lacquered base while respecting the integrity, construction, and historical character of the original George Nelson design. Please inquire regarding restoration options.
The Nelson Slat Bench is arguably one of the single most recognizable benches of the Mid-Century Modern era. Its versatility was part of Nelson’s brilliance: the design can function as seating, a low coffee table, a display platform, or simply as a sculptural architectural element within a room. More than 75 years after its introduction, the design remains remarkably modern.
For collectors, the combination of early Herman Miller production, original foil label, long 68.25-inch form, classic black lacquered legs, exposed joinery, and authentic vintage patina makes this an especially compelling example of an American modernist icon.
Designer: George Nelson
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Design Date: 1946
Production: Early 1950s
Origin: United States
Materials: Wood, black lacquered wood
Dimensions: 68.25” L × 18.5” W × 14.125” H
Condition: Vintage, unrestored condition with substantial age-appropriate wear and patina throughout. Original early Herman Miller foil label remains intact. Restoration by Hobbs Modern is available upon request.
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Wood Care
Keep the furniture in a cool, dry place
Avoid furniture's direct exposure to rain, sun or wind
Avoid placing hot objects directly on the piece to prevent undesirable marks or permanent circles.
Avoid placing objects that may cause scratches to the surface
Clean using water only in small quantities and apply it with soft, damp cloth
After damp cloth wipe with a soft, dry cloth
You can use other liquids that are especially for cleaning wood furniture. Take into account the type of wood and follow the manufacturer's instructions
Upholstery Care
Do not expose directly to sunlight to provide greater durability colors
Exchange both side pads, the seat and backrest, to obtain uniform wear
Shake the cushions regularly to remove dust and to maintain the stability of the form
Clean regularly with a vacuum cleaner in good condition
Use a textile fabric cleaning substance according to and following the manufacturer's instructions
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