Showrooms

Early Harry Bertoia for Knoll Children's Side Chairs in White Enamel, Pair

Creator: Harry Bertoia - Knoll
Offered by: Object Refinery

Description
Harry Bertoia, renowned primarily as a sculptor, was approached by Florence Knoll with a simple request: if he discovered an interesting design motif in his artistic process, he should share it with Knoll. There was no specific product in mind; the emphasis was on creativity. Bertoia, always seeking designs that conformed naturally to the body, explored the use of bent metal rods to create a visually weightless support system. This sculptural approach led to his iconic seating designs, where sitting felt as effortless as floating on air.

These child-sized side chairs exemplify Bertoia's early work and come from an estate featuring many early Knoll designs. Based on the lightness of the rods used, we estimate they were produced in the late 1950s. The airiness of these rods, central to Bertoia's original vision, would later give way to heavier gauges in subsequent production. We've meticulously cleaned the chairs' original white enamel finish, which shows minimal wear considering their age.

Though not pictured, the chairs retain their original plastic floor glides and seat pads, which still have a partial Knoll upholstery label. The seat pads, covered in the original red naugahyde, can be reupholstered upon request.

More Information

Documentation:	Makers Label/Invoice
Origin:	United States
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	Original White Enameled Steel
Condition:	Good. Minor wear consistent with age and history
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Incollect Reference #:	750557

Dimensions

W.	16 in;	H.	24.5 in;	D.	15.5 in;
W.	40.64 cm;	H.	62.23 cm;	D.	39.37 cm;

Seat H.	14 in;
Seat H.	35.56 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.