Image 1 of 9
Image 2 of 9
Image 3 of 9
Image 4 of 9
Image 5 of 9
Image 6 of 9
Image 7 of 9
Image 8 of 9
Image 9 of 9
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Vladimir Kagan (1927–2016) was a pioneering German-born American furniture designer celebrated for his sculptural, modernist forms that blended comfort with bold innovation. After emigrating to the United States in 1938, Kagan studied architecture at Columbia University before joining his father’s cabinetry shop, where he developed a deep understanding of craftsmanship.
In 1949, he launched his own studio in New York, quickly gaining recognition for designs that challenged conventional furniture silhouettes. His most iconic works include the Serpentine Sofa, the Unicorn Chair, and free-form coffee tables, each reflecting his signature organic curves and futuristic sensibility. Kagan’s work was highly influential in shaping mid-century modern design, marrying elegance with functionality, and it remains sought-after by collectors, architects, and designers worldwide.
Over his six-decade career, Kagan collaborated with clients such as Walt Disney, Marilyn Monroe, and Gary Cooper, and his pieces have been exhibited in museums including the V&A and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. His legacy endures as a master of fluid, timeless design that redefined the possibilities of modern furniture.
