Vintage De Sede DS-600 Snake Sofa with Eleven Elements in Brown Leather, 1970s

A 1970s nine-foot-long eleven-element de Sede DS-600 Snake sofa in original light brown leather, designed by Ueli Berger, Elenora Peduzzi-Riva, Heinz Ulrich, and Klaus Vogt.

Officially designated as the “Snake” sofa by de Sede, the Swiss company also refers to it in product documents as having been originally named the “Tatzelwurm” after a mythical lizard-like creature from Alpine lore, often described as having the face of a cat and a slender, serpent-like body. Over the years, it’s become commonly referred to as the “Non-Stop” sofa and “Caterpillar” sofa as well.

The revolutionary DS-600 became an immediate international furniture icon upon its introduction in 1972 due to its strikingly futuristic look and an ingenious modular design that allows for the infinite addition of seating and armrest sections—or “elements”, as de Sede refers to them. It’s this feature that’s earned it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest sofa.

Each element connects to the next via a metal hinge and easily removable pin, with the cushions being joined by a long zipper. This makes it possible to curve the entire sofa forward, backward, or both directions at once as one’s needs or whims dictate, all aided by slider-like wide wood glides. It’s also designed to look great from every side, so one can situate it anywhere in the room.

This vintage example is comprised of nine seating elements and two opposing end elements with armrests. Each element is topped by a single overstuffed cushion that drapes like a melting chocolate bar over the edges. Completely upholstered in the original light brown aniline leather, with some typical slight variations in tone. Color in person is something of a cross between options “Whiskey” and “Nougat” as they appear on the de Sede website. Leather is soft and supple, with a handsome display of natural character and patina acquired over the years, and for which this type of tanning is known. Has been recently cleaned and conditioned from top to bottom.

Sofa is unmarked, though we do know something of its provenance:

We acquired it as part of a set of three de Sede pieces—which included two DS-85 lounge chairs that we offer in a separate listing—from an individual who purchased them together on 1stdibs eleven years ago. Both lounge chairs retain labels from Traquair, a since-closed Cornwall, England-based gallery that specialized in mid-twentieth century furniture, lighting, and art.

We also consulted in person with a de Sede authorized showroom rep who confirmed its authenticity and approximate production period based on leather type and patina, fabrication techniques, and other factors.

Dimensions overall..:
Height: 29 in
Width: 112 in
Depth: 40 in
Seat Height: 15 in

When aligned straight, the seating area is 90 inches wide, with each seating element having a 10-inch-wide cushion and 6-inch-wide base.

Replacements made: Two of the original connecting pins have been replaced by newer standard bolts that can be inserted and removed by hand as per the originals, with there being no change in functionality or stability. Wear consistent with age and use. In very good vintage condition. Leather with typical signs of age and use, includ. some darker areas, small spots, minor scuffs, and light scratches. A small hidden seam separation behind cushion at top back. One 2-in.-wide piece cut from underside.