Oct 23, 2013

Rocking chair

A very special piece we have not discussed yet is a wooden rocking chair Pekka found at a local antique fair almost two years ago, some months before Sofi was born. It was in a pretty good condition just in need of a through cleaning and some surface treatment, but otherwise ready for use. For quite some time, however, Sofi was way too little to enjoy her special toy. But now, at the age of 1.5 years, she finds the rocking chair quite intriguing.

Rocking and playing

She does not only love sitting in it and playing with her plastic horses, but she also loves rocking. And to be more precise, rocking in a serious way, as fast and far as possible, and preferably so that the top is left open. Knocking on wood - she has not fallen of her ride so far!

From the 1940's



























We think the rocking chair dates back to 1940's due to how it looks like and based on Pekka's discussion with the seller. Of course we can't be certain, but it is clearly old and unique, we have not ran across a similar item in any of the live auctions or the internet sites. The wood work is beautiful, it has some very appealing shapes and details.

Back rest

Child proof (?) locks to lock up the top

Urho and Sofi have a very interesting relationship at the moment. When we were for example taking these pictures, Urho had to know that by positioning himself close to Sofi in swing action, he is risking his well being a bit. Mysteriously, however, despite of the inevitable risk he often prefers being in the centre of all action. And equally miraculously, between him and Sofi, there has been no major incidents of any kind, which has a lot to do with Urho's calm and easy character. Instead, a couple of times we have even observed a form of interaction between those two which could be called "playing together".

No need to react

8 comments:

  1. Urho -the Nanny, keeping an eye.

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    1. The relationship between Sofi and Urho can indeed be described with the classic definition: love & hate. Between kisses and pulling an ear or tail Urho never knows what will happen next. Normally when Sofi approaches Urho tends to retreat to a save (high enough) spot and when strangled to a corner he attacks.. by licking her face:)

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  2. what a beautiful piece of furniture/toy for Sofi! Lucky girl!

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    1. Hi Anjanette! It's a great piece and in wonderful condition. If I remember right I believe the seller told us that the swing was originally from Sweden, but I could be wrong.

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    2. Hello Anj! The above is Pekka and this is Minna! It was indeed a great find, and a very first item Pekka found for Sofi. Therefore it also has some special meaning for us. Unfortunately, the rate she is growing up it is not going to be very long that she will fit in it, so I guess now is the time to enjoy. Send my best for D, S & M - I miss you all!

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  3. This is a truly lovely and unusual piece of child's furniture. I hate to be *that person*, but I thought I would let you know that there is a little something lost in translation. I would call this a "rocking chair". A swing is suspended from above, usually via rope or chain.

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    1. Hi! Thank you so much for bringing out the error we made by calling the item a swing. You are absolutely right, it is a rocking chair. I fine-tuned the post already!

      These are the challenges we face when not writing in our native language. Yet it is a compromise we were willing to take as we want to share our posts internationally.
      Thanks again for the feedback!

      Best, Pekka

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    2. I'm glad you understood my intent and didn't take my comment as too critical. :) I very much enjoy your blog and appreciate that you share it in a manner that I can read.

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