The model, nicknamed "that chair with the hole in the back" for its sculptural backrest, is the office evolution of the Womb Chair. This is the Model 71 with closed armrests. The historical catalog dimensions are W 73 x D 60 x H 80 x H seat 46 cm, perfectly consistent with the measurements recorded.
AUTHENTICITY - Collector's item:
This is not a reissue. It is an original Italian production from the 1970s by Figli di A. Cassina, Meda - Milan, an official licensed manufacturer for Knoll International at the time.
1. Original stamp: The FIGLI DI A. CASSINA - MEDA - MILANO stamp is located under the crosspiece (see detailed photo). This is the most important proof of authenticity.
2. Correct construction: Molded shell, original black leather with period stitching, separate seat cushion, original polished aluminum 4-star swivel base with glides.
Dimensions: Height 76 cm, Width 62 cm, Seat depth 48 cm
Condition: Good vintage condition. Original leather with beautiful patina, no tears. Light marks on the armrests. Working swivel mechanism. Base with normal signs of use.
A highly collectible pair of Executive Armchairs Model 71 designed by Eero Saarinen in 1950 for Knoll.
Known as "the chair with the hole in the back" for its sculptural backrest, this model was Saarinen's more formal, office evolution of his famous 1948 Womb Chair. This is the Model 71 - the fully enclosed armchair version. The classic dimensions for this family are documented as W 73 x D 60 x H 80 x Seat H 46 cm, matching this pair. 
AUTHENTICITY - This is the key point for collectors:
This is NOT a modern Knoll Studio re-edition. This is early Italian licensed production by the legendary cabinetmaker Figli di A. Cassina, Meda Milano.
1. Original Stamp: The underside of the 4-star base clearly bears the cold-stamp FIGLI DI A. CASSINA - MEDA - MILAN - photographed. This was the official manufacturer for Knoll International in Italy in the 60s/70s before Knoll opened its own factory. These Cassina-stamped pieces are now rarer than later Knoll-labeled production.
2. Correct Construction: Molded shell, original black leather with period-correct stitching, separate seat cushion, and the correct 1970s 4-star swivel base in polished aluminum / black steel with glides.
Dimensions: H 76 cm x W 62 cm x Seat Depth 48 cm (Seat Height approx. 44-45 cm)
Condition: Good original vintage condition. Original black leather with lovely patina, no tears. Light wear on armrests consistent with age. Swivel is smooth. Base shows light signs of use / minor oxidation. Structurally excellent.
Specifications
ConditionExcellentColorsBlackMaterialMetal, LeatherNumber of items1Height76 cmWidth62 cmDepth48 cmSeat height80 cm