Pierre Paulin, Rare Pair of Spider Lounge Chairs "Model F678" for Artifort. 1966

Exceptional and rare pair of lounge chairs model F678, also known as the Spider Lounge Chair, designed by French master Pierre Paulin and manufactured by Artifort, the Netherlands, 1966.

The unique hexagonal shape of the Spider chair is formed by a lacquered and jointed wood base with six plywood stringers. Just like the thread of a spider’s web, a single nylon rope of nearly 40 yards is meticulously woven onto the structure, supporting an ivory wool cushion. This ingenious construction creates an extremely comfortable lounge chair that feels like a suspended nest.

Pairs of Spider chairs are exceptionally rare and highly sought-after on the international market. This set embodies Paulin’s avant-garde exploration of geometry and comfort in the 1960s, a decade that established him as one of the most influential French designers of the postwar period. Produced by Artifort, these pieces reflect the experimental spirit of the era, where lightness, structure, and new materials redefined modern living spaces.

The bases remain in their original vintage condition, while the cushions have been entirely reupholstered in France by our master craftsmen. We selected a luxurious Kvadrat velvet from the Raf Simons collection in a deep ruby-green shade, with new foams, respecting the original proportions and lines as Pierre Paulin designed them. This refined reupholstery highlights the sculptural quality of the design, with the contrast between the white lacquered base and the jewel-toned velvet creating a timeless and sophisticated harmony.

Originally upholstered in black leather cushions, this pair has been carefully restored according to the highest standards. Photos before and during restoration are available on request.

These chairs are true statement pieces — as striking in a curated collection or gallery as in a refined private interior. Their rarity, comfort, and iconic silhouette make them a centerpiece for any sophisticated décor, equally suited to a living room, study, or bedroom.

Literature:
Pierre Paulin, Designer, p. 210–211, Co-edition Archibooks and Grand-Hornu Images, 2008.

The Spider collection occupies a singular place in Paulin’s oeuvre. Its wooden base and rope structure stand apart from his usual constructive vocabulary. The use of rope as the supporting structure for the cushion recalls the discrete cord connecting the textile band in his very first “Anneau” chair models. The star-shaped wooden base was initially developed for specific private commissions, such as the Maison de la Radio in Paris (1962) for the large marble-topped tables of the “Foyer des Artistes,” and later for the headquarters of Crédit Agricole des Alpes-Maritimes.

Additional photos and videos available on request.
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