Pair of Giancarlo Piretti "Alky" Lounge Chairs for Anonima Castelli, Italy 1970
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Description
Italian designer Giancarlo Piretti emerged as a leading figure in postwar furniture design, known for combining technical ingenuity with sculptural forms. As a longtime collaborator with Anonima Castelli, Piretti developed groundbreaking designs in the 1960s and 70s, many of which explored modularity, and ergonomics. His works, such as the iconic Plia folding Chair and Plia Table won multiple international design awards, and still find their home in museums word-wide, from Austria to the Czech Republic, Slovenia and the United States.
The “Alky” lounge chair, debuted in 1970, is among his most celebrated works and reflects the experimental spirit of the period while maintaining a strong sense of comfort and approachability. The chairs showcase their signature curvilinear form, expertly upholstered in a soft off-white bouclé that enhances the chairs’ inviting charm. The pieces are organic, reminiscent of clouds, both through their flow, plushy shape and soft fabric. The design features a continuous silhouette from backrest to seat to base, all supported by a lightweight aluminium structure. The sled frames also rest on aluminium feet, ensuring the stability of the chairs. Their organic shape hugs the body and provides a comfortable sitting experience, further highlighting Piretti’s attention to ergonomics. The design is balanced, as the textile surfaces adds warmth, contrasting the modernist structure with a sense of softness.
These “Alky” chairs remain examples of 1970s Italian design and perfect illustrations of how form and function can harmonise effortlessly. Ideal as statement pieces in a living room, lounge, or studio, they offer timeless comfort and a sculptural presence that continues to resonate in contemporary interiors.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
26.38 in W x 32.28 in D x 27.56 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 22.05 in
67 cm W x 82 cm D x 70 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 56 cm
Shipping:
This pair of lounge chairs will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the item in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.
IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU. -
More Information
Documentation: Documented elsewhere (similar item) Origin: Italy Period: 1950-1979 Materials: Bouclé, Aluminium Condition: Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Creation Date: 1970 Number of Pieces: 2-3 Styles / Movements: Modern, Mid Century Dealer Reference #: 20253215 Incollect Reference #: 820528 -
Dimensions
W. 26.38 in; H. 27.56 in; D. 32.28 in; W. 67 cm; H. 70 cm; D. 82 cm; Seat H. 16.14 in; Seat H. 41 cm;
Message from Seller:
Located in Utrecht, The Netherlands, H. Gallery specializes in modern and contemporary design with a strong focus on Brazil and Scandinavia. The gallery strives to preserve and promote especially Brazil's rich design heritage and curates a select group of contemporary artists. Meticulous research, ie getting in contact with the original designers, producers, their heirs, and retrieving and indexing old catalogues and magazines is at the heart of its activities. All works presented excel in great