The Bibendum Chair: An Icon of Art Deco Design
The Bibendum Chair is one of the most recognizable and celebrated pieces of 20th-century furniture design. An icon of the Art Deco movement, it is renowned for its bold, unconventional forms and its inspiration drawn from the modern industrial age.
Historical Background
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Designer: Eileen Gray (1878-1976)
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Year: Designed circa 1926-1929.
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Origin: The chair was created for E-1027, the groundbreaking modernist house in the South of France that Gray designed for herself and her partner, Jean Badovici.
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Inspiration: The chair's name and form are directly inspired by the Michelin Man, whose original name is "Bibendum." The chair's structure mimics the iconic figure's rotund, stacked-tire form, translating it into a functional and luxurious object.
Design and Features
The Bibendum Chair is a masterpiece of sculptural design, characterized by its use of curved forms and contrasting materials.
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The Structure: The chair's most defining feature is its upholstered, rolling forms that form the arms and backrest. These tubular elements, reminiscent of stacked tires, create a wide, enveloping silhouette that is both protective and inviting.
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The Frame: The plush upholstery is supported by a chrome-plated or stainless steel frame. This use of polished metal, a hallmark of the Machine Age aesthetic, provides a sleek, industrial contrast to the soft padding.
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Materials and Craftsmanship:
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The frame is typically made of polished chrome-plated steel.
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The upholstery is high-quality leather or fabric, often in bright colors or neutral tones, adding to its luxurious feel.
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Ergonomics: Despite its avant-garde appearance, the chair is designed for comfort. The curved back and deep seat, combined with the supportive "tire" arms, create a cozy and intimate seating experience.
Design Philosophy
Eileen Gray was a pioneer of modern design who blended the luxurious with the industrial. The Bibendum Chair exemplifies this approach. It is a witty and sophisticated take on a commercial mascot, transforming an industrial symbol into a piece of domestic high art. It reflects a moment in design history where designers looked to machinery and consumer culture for new, non-traditional forms.
Legacy and Significance
For decades, Eileen Gray's work was overlooked, but she is now rightfully celebrated as a visionary. The Bibendum Chair has been produced by ClassiCon since the 1970s under the authorization of her estate, ensuring its authenticity.
Today, the Bibendum Chair is more than just a seat; it is a sculptural statement and a symbol of daring creativity. It remains a highly sought-after piece for collectors and design enthusiasts, frequently featured in museums, galleries, and stylish interiors around the world.
In summary, the Bibendum Chair is a timeless icon that perfectly captures the innovation, wit, and elegance of its creator, Eileen Gray.
The contact surface is made of genuine leather and stainless steel.
Size: 920*720*750mm
