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Pierre Chapo

Pierre Chapo “S34” Solid Elm Chair, France 1960s

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Documentation

Documented elsewhere (similar item)

Origin

France

Period

1950-1979

Materials

Wood

Dimensions

W.	15.75 in;	H.	29.33 in;	D.	21.65 in;
W.	40 cm;	H.	74.5 cm;	D.	55 cm;

Seat H.	16.14 in;
Seat H.	41 cm;

Condition

Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches and marks on the wood.

Creation Date

1960s

Description

Dining room chair “S34” has the playful and majestic characteristics typical of Pierre Chapo's emblematic creations. Asymmetrical, yet perfectly balanced, this model belongs with the designer’s famous “Sfax” table.

The cross-legged base corresponds to the design of the backrest, which is slightly offset from the middle. Made from Chapo's favourite wood, elm, this chair has a rustic style with architectural precision, which comes as no surprise, as Pierre Chapo trained as an architect in Paris. The slightly more rounded edges show that this chair is an older, authentic version of the “S34” model. The cross-legged base matches the back that is slightly placed out of the middle, enhancing the masterful asymmetry that defines the design. The overall look is very sleek, and combined with details like the visible joinery and the solid wooden structure, this chair’s perfectly imperfect, which is a conscious, Chapo-esque ideal.

Chapo's work originated by means of special commissions that could later be adapted to universal needs. Chapo was inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's balanced lines, Corbusier's research on proportions and Bauhaus. The three principles that motivated Pierre Chapo were material, form, and function. He measured his furniture by means of golden ratio and used elm wood as his preferred material. This chair is a beautiful example of his ideals in a material form.

Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Small scratches and marks on the wood.

Dimensions:
15.74 in W x 21.65 in D x 29.33 in H; Seat height 16.14 in
40 cm W x 55 cm D x 74.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm

About the designer:
Pierre Chapo, born in Paris in July 1927, was initially interested in becoming a professional painter. However, after a chance meeting with a shipbuilder who introduced him to wood and wood crafts, Chapo changed his focus and decided to study architectural studies at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
After graduation, Chapo and his wife, the sculptor and painter Nicole Lormier, started to travel extensively through Scandinavia and Central America. Among the many places the couple visited was the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright in Taliesin West. A visit that had a lasting influence on Chapo’s future work and designs. Read more about Pierre Chapo. ~H.

Shipping:
This chair will be packed and shipped with the greatest care to make sure you will receive the items in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.

Styles / Movements

Collectible Design, Mid Century, Modern

Dealer Reference Number

20210729

Incollect Reference Number

485191