Eight “Tre Stecche” chairs in cherry wood, Chiavari manufacture, Italy, 1950s

A set of eight “Tre Stecche” chairs in cherry wood, with seats woven from multicolored cord, Chiavari manufacture, 1950s.

The Chiavari chair experienced significant growth in both production and aesthetic refinement during the twentieth century. Among its most celebrated models—one that left an indelible mark on the history of furniture—is the “Tre Stecche” and its many variations. This model is striking for the simple yet perfect balance of its forms: an elegant and functional object that can harmonize with any interior.

The “Tre Stecche” was admired for these very qualities by prominent twentieth-century architects and designers, who included it in the interiors of their projects. The chair often appeared, side by side with iconic masterpieces of design, in the pages of Domus, the historic magazine founded and directed by Gio Ponti.

The present set is particularly remarkable for the manufacturer’s choice of cherry wood, a noble material reserved from the very beginning of the centuries-long history of the Chiavari chair for its most refined models. The traditional technique of steam-bending the wood has given these chairs their slender, graceful profile. A recent professional restoration enhanced the natural warm hue of the cherry and brought out the striking mirrored grain typical of wild cherrywood.

For the seats, an original weave in cords of different colors has been chosen, lending the chairs a summery appearance and a spirited, unconventional character.

Dimensions: 42W x 43D x 90H cm; seat height: 46 cm (16.5W x 16.9D x 35.4H in; seat height: 18.1 in).