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Knoll -Harry Bertoia

Early Bertoia Bird Chair in Outdoor-Grade Powdercoat by Harry Bertoia for Knoll

Documentation

Documented elsewhere (exact item)

Origin

United States

Period

1950-1979

Materials

Outdoor-Grade Powdercoated Steel in Matte Black

Dimensions

W.	38 in;	H.	38 in;	D.	36 in;
W.	96.52 cm;	H.	96.52 cm;	D.	91.44 cm;

Condition

Good. New restoration by Object Refinery

Description

The great Harry Bertoia was first and foremost a sculptor, this was understood by Florence Knoll. When Bertoia was approached by Knoll to develop some designs for their furniture line, she did not put emphasis on a particular product. The request was simple; if Bertoia arrived at an interesting motif in his work, show it to Knoll.

Bertoia was in pursuit of a design which conformed to the body when sitting. His sculptor-like approach led to him discovering the use of bent rods as a visually weightless support system. To Bertoia, it was like sitting on air.

One of Bertoia’s more progressive designs is know as the “Bird Chair”. In every way this playful chair inherits organic avian form with its wing like extending arms or its headrest which is reminiscent of a tail. The chair’s seat attaches to its base with four cylindrical rubber shocks which allow for a smooth rocking motion when seated. The Object Refinery team completely refinishing this piece with an outdoor-grade powder coated finish in Matte Black making this chair suitable for use in absolutely any space. Bertoia’s mastery as a sculptor truly shines through in his Bird Chair design, which just so happens to be a delight to sit in as well.

Styles / Movements

Mid Century, Modern

Incollect Reference Number

471618