Pair of Vittorio Bonacina (attr.) Wicker Chairs, Italy 1950s (sold)
Pair of Vittorio Bonacina (attr.) Wicker Chairs, Italy 1950s (sold)
This pair of woven wicker chairs were designed by Vittorio Bonacina from the family-run Bonacina atelier, one of the handful of the surviving rattan ateliers in Europe. Bonacina has been weaving furniture according to the old, traditional techniques since 1889.
The quality handwoven wicker makes this pair an outstanding example woven furniture from the 1950s in Italy. This pair features a classic design with rounded edges and an airy feel. The flowing lines of the frame and seat are visually striking, and paired with the organic material, give this pair an understated elegance.
From the masterful use of natural fibers, to the visible joinery techniques, the expert craftsmanship is very visible. While the design of Bonacina has evolved over time, the construction process has barely changed in since the 19th century, therefore these chairs are timeless pieces that also guarantee longevity.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The cane and wicker have some scratches and marks.
Dimensions:
23.22 in W x 30.31 in D x 32.28 in H; seat height: 16.53 in
59 cm W x 77 cm D x 82 cm H; seat height: 42 cm
About the designer:
The historic Italian company, Bonacina 1889 is synonymous around the world with products in rattan and wicker with a very high formal and aesthetic quality. The Bonacina 1889 rattan furniture are the result of over 100 years of experience of one of the most important sector dynasties, the Bonacina family from Lurago d’Erba.
Giovanni Bonacina started his business in 1889, combining two traditional crafts practiced in the area, basketry and furniture making, using the local materials reed and cane, with rattan from Southeast Asia. His hard work and experience produced excellent results, and his efforts were rewarded with awards in international expositions and numerous important commissions.
His son Vittorio carried on and built upon what his father had passed down, taking the company yet another step forward. With an eye on the revolution in design and art that was taking place in the 1950s, and a new era in the company’s future design, visionary collaborations were created. By the winning combination of production experience, the collaboration with talented designers, and a shared willingness to push the materials and shapes into new expressive forms, Bonacina distinguished itself over and over. Many of the company’s designs are exhibited in the MoMA, The Museum of Art in Philadelphia, The Montreal Museum of Fine, The Vitra Design Museum in Weil Am Rhein and "Museo del Design alla Triennale" in Milan.
The company remains faithful to the natural raw materials that mostly defined its history. Now as then, each piece is hand-crafted by specialized artisans who carefully and finely curve rattan canes, weave and bind rattan core and synthetic materials - such as Bopifil, Polypeel, Polycore and Rolon - giving birth to architects and designers projects, carrying out an international divulgative process. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
In the manner of French designer Charles Dudouyt’s signature style, this pair of armchairs seamlessly meld a variety of trends thanks to the choice of materials and form. As a major figure in early 20th-century French design, Dudouyt was known for his ability to combine French elaborate classicism and more modernist sensibility. His work often celebrated the raw character of wood, combined with tactile natural fibres, resulting in furniture that feels both grounded and artful.
This pair of armchairs exemplifies the distinctive balance between strength and refined craftsmanship. The chairs feature sturdy wooden frames with a rich, dark finish that accentuates the natural grain and depth of the wood. The defining element is the bold turned spindle legs and front supports, lending a sculptural rhythm and dynamic presence to each piece. The seats and backrests are crafted with woven straw, adding an inviting, organic texture and a sense of warmth. The use of straw not only highlights traditional artisanal techniques but also offers a flexible and breathable seating solution. The wooden form is elemental, with the flat curved armrests showcasing the natural grain of the material. Each leg is skilfully turned to showcase the craftsmanship and attention to detail of the maker.
The woodworking employed in crafting these chairs results in unique, visually interesting structures, capable of withstanding the test of time while retaining their graceful silhouette. With the combination of sculptural craftsmanship and natural materials, these pieces will infuse any space with warmth and personality, while also standing as a testament to European design traditions.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use.
Dimensions:
25.59 in W x 22.64 in D x 32.87 in H; Seat height 13.58 in; Seat depth 17.72 in; Arm height 23.23 in
65 cm W x 57.5 cm D x 83.5 cm H; Seat height 34.5 cm; Seat depth 45 cm; Arm height 59 cm