Eero Saarinen and Knoll Associates, Inc. (later Knoll, Inc.)

Womb Chair, No. 70

design 1946, this example c. 1965, in production 1948-present

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Eero Saarinen and Knoll Associates, Inc. (later Knoll, Inc.)

Womb Chair, No. 70

Designer: Eero Saarinen
Manufacturer: Knoll Associates, Inc. (later Knoll, Inc.)

Womb Chair, No. 70

design 1946, this example c. 1965, in production 1948-present

Physical Qualities Chrome-plated tubular steel, molded fiberglass, foam rubber, original wool upholstery, 35 1/2 x 39 1/2 x 36 in. (90.2 x 100.3 x 91.4 cm.)

Credit Line Gift of Barry Friedman and Patricia Pastor, New York

Object Number 1984.387a

When designer and entrepreneur Florence Knoll requested “a chair that was like a basket full of pillows—something she could really curl up in,” Finnish-born Eero Saarinen responded with this molded fiberglass shell covered in foam and fabric. Whether the sitter is curling up or stretching out, Womb Chair provides security and comfort. This popular design was featured in magazines and advertisements celebrating the guilty pleasures of relaxation for the upper-middle class, like this Saturday Evening Post cover.