Afra & Tobia Scarpa 'Soriana' Pair of Chairs for Cassina, Italy, 1969

Afra & Tobia Scarpa 'Soriana' Pair of Chairs for Cassina, Italy, 1969

The 'Soriana' line was designed by the Italian designer duo, Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1969. This 'Soriana' chair model was the first piece designed in the collection and in 1970 won the most important design awards of the time, the Compasso d'Oro award.

The pair of lounge chairs was manufactured by Cassina and features numerous elements that make the design iconic. The idea for this chair model changed the face of upholstered furniture designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa. The designer couple utilized the new possibilities offered by polyurethane foam, which they used to create the unconventional look of laid-back luxury of the Soriana. These chairs are often referred to as the single-seat Soriana sofas as there is a three-seater sofa in the line that as well that has the same structural composition. The 'Soriana' collection was meant to express beauty and comfort by using a whole bundle of fabric cinched together by chrome-plated steel clamps. The chair's aesthetic is further enriched by a tufted or pleated effect created with the upholstered buttons, both on the seat and back cushions. The 'Soriana' chair is immediately recognizable, which is why they achieved their iconic status in the world of interiors and collectible design. Afra and Tobia Scarpa’s collaboration with Italian manufacturer Cassina reached its peak with this line. Established in 1927, Cassina launched industrial design in Italy in the 1950's, with a mindset focused on research and innovation, combining technology and long-standing European artisanal craftsmanship. The interesting pairing of the chrome-plated steel clamps with the luxurious rich espresso colored velvet fabric creates a dramatic sculptural form. This piece has been newly re-upholstered in an Italian espresso colored velvet and restored in our professional studio. Matching 'Soriana' three seat sofa is available to create a living room suite.

By Afra & Tobia Scarpa 'Soriana' Sofa for Cassina, Italy, 1969
Size: 28 1/2" back height x 18" seat height x 34" wide x 40" deep