Hoffman developed a severe geometric style in his furniture productions in the early twentieth century, eschewing any reference to the current Art Nouveau style. He was much influenced by the geometric designs, elongated forms, and pierced decoration of the great Scottish architect and designer Charles Rennie Mackintosh. The dominant ornamental motif used by both designers was the square. The oak of this chair has been stained black and then painted with a lime solution to reveal the grain of the wood-one of Hoffman's most characteristic finishes.

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