Jindrich Halabala Sold at Auction Prices

b. 1903 - d. 1978

Jindrich Halabala was a designer credited with ushering in the mass market production of furniture in his native Czechoslovakia. During the period between World War I and World War II, Halabala pioneered two fundamental series of modular furniture: the H and E style chairs featuring innovative tubular steel and legs, going on to inspire a generation of designers including Peter Protzman and Harry Bertoia. Halabala was born on May 24, 1903 in the town of Korycany, Czechoslovakia, and grew up training to become a cabinetmaker in his father’s joinery workshop. In 1920, he entered the State-owned Woodworking School in Valašské Mezirící, and completed his practical studies at the United Woodcrafts Manufacturers in Brno, later becoming the company’s chief designer.

Halabala died in Brno in 1978. His designs can be found in the permanent collections of institutions such as the Museum of Art in Olomouc and the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam. Today, the Czech Republic issues an annual award in his name for excellence in furniture and interior design.