Mid-Century Belgian Industrialism Drafting stool
Item: Mid-Century Belgian Industrialism Drafting stool
Product id: 2754
Brand: Usines Wels
Description:
This is an exceptional example of mid-century Belgian industrialism: a drafting stool manufactured by the renowned Usines Wels in Brussels during the 1950s. While often compared to its German contemporary, Rowac, the Wels designs are celebrated for a specific "Brussels elegance"—a blend of heavy-duty utility and surprisingly graceful lines.
The Architectural Silhouette
The stool is a masterclass in geometric tension and functional honesty:
The Signature "Swan" Backrest: The most striking feature is the slender, S-curved spring-steel support. Engineered by Usines Wels to provide ergonomic flexibility, it gives the stool a kinetic, calligraphic profile that feels more like a sculpture than a piece of factory equipment.
Triangular Stability: The tripod base, constructed from black-lacquered folded steel, utilizes a rigid triangular footprint. This design was the gold standard for stability in Brussels' post-war architecture studios and technical workshops.
The Pivoting Lumbar: Topping the steel curve is a small, articulating solid wood backrest, designed to follow the movement of the sitter—a sophisticated touch for a 1950s industrial piece.
Materials & Heritage
European Beechwood: The circular seat and backrest are crafted from solid beech, now wearing a deep, honey-toned patina that can only be achieved through decades of authentic use.
Industrial Finishes: The frame features original rivet construction and a matte black finish, showcasing the "honest" construction methods championed by Usines Wels.
The Brussels Pedigree: Usines Wels was a cornerstone of Belgian industrial production. Owning a piece from this specific manufacturer is a nod to the city’s rich history of 20th-century craftsmanship and its unique ability to soften the "Machine Age" aesthetic with a bit of local flair.
Height: 82 cm Diameter: 44cm
Price: € 450
