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

Creator: Knoll -Harry Bertoia
Offered 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.

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (exact item)
Origin:	United States
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Outdoor-Grade Powdercoated Steel in Matte Black
Condition:	Good. New restoration by Object Refinery
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Incollect Reference #:	471618

Dimensions

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

Message from Seller:

Stories exist in many forms, we see them in objects. The aesthetic of those before us is passed down through their surviving creations. These are the objects we search for; to preserve, refine, & continue the story. Object Refinery combines design obsession, fine craftsmanship, and a love for history in our worldwide search for objects. Based in Connecticut, USA; we partner with a network of local artisans to restore and refine our findings before passing them on to the next collector.

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