Item Description
An icon of brutalist luxury from the Swiss masters of leather. In the 1970s, the Swiss brand De Sede elevated furniture-making to an art form by refusing to compromise on material or craftsmanship. The DS-42 is a testament to this philosophy—a sofa that embraces the raw, untamed beauty of nature and translates it into a piece of functional sculpture. This two-seater sofa is upholstered in thick, natural bullhide, specifically sourced from the neck of the animal. This choice of material is critical: neck leather is prized for its deep grain, visible scarring, and natural creases—marks that are not imperfections, but rather a fingerprint of the animal’s life. The result is a hide with a rugged topography and exceptional durability that only grows more characterful with age . The leather has developed a warm, cognac-toned patina over the decades, soft to the touch yet immensely strong. The design is deceptively simple: two boxy, generously proportioned cushions rest upon a solid hardwood frame. The deep seats (53 cm) invite you to sink in, while the removable cushions offer a clever versatility—when removed, the seat depth extends, allowing for a more lounging posture . This modular honesty, where the construction is felt rather than hidden, is the hallmark of De Sede’s saddlery heritage . Why We Love It: · Saddlery Heritage: Born from De Sede’s origins as a saddler’s workshop, this sofa utilizes techniques normally reserved for equestrian gear—meaning it is built to withstand decades of use . · Material Authenticity: The natural bullhide is not corrected or masked. It showcases the full, untamed beauty of the leather, including the distinctive neck creases that make every single DS-42 unique . · Collectible Provenance: De Sede pieces from this era are highly sought after by collectors of Swiss design and vintage leather goods for their “lifetime” durability . · Versatile Depth: The removable cushion design allows the sofa to adapt to your comfort needs, functioning either as a formal seat or a deeper, more relaxed lounge . Condition: In very good vintage condition. The natural bullhide displays a rich, even patina with the characteristic graining and minor markings expected of this authentic, untreated leather. These are signs of authenticity, not damage. The leather is soft, supple, and well-maintained. The frame is solid and sturdy. Some light wear consistent with age and use is present . Measurements: · Width: 155 cm / 61 inches · Depth: 83 cm / 32.7 inches · Height: 73 cm / 28.7 inches · Seat Height: approx. 42 cm / 16.5 inches A rugged classic that will outlive us all. Ready for immediate shipment.
