Designer and woodworker Pierre Chapo was an iconic French designer, who created timeless furniture that fused modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Among his loyal clientele was the playwright Samuel Beckett among others.

Chapo initially set out to become a painter, but an encounter with a shipbuilder in 1947 convinced him to pursue woodworking instead. These extremely rare “S42” chairs combine his many talents in a very apparent manner. Not to be confused with the “S45” model, the present model comprising this set of four has differently crafted legs. Each chair consists of seven elements arranged and joined in an exceptionally creative way, because of which these chairs can also be viewed as sculptures. With its distinctive structure, this set epitomizes Chapo's research for new systems of joinery, in which the material and the design would be the lead factors in achieving stability, durability, and of course, an aesthetically pleasing outcome. The design of this model evidently had to be studied very precisely: the proportions had to be finely tuned to successfully combine a perfect angle of inclination between the legs and the top, but also to calculate the degree that each leg needed to be shaped in relation to the seat, where all the legs and back were joined. These chairs are made from elm, Chapo’s preferred material for his sculptural furniture pieces.

While much could be written both about Chapo and these stunning chairs, words in this case can’t do justice in relaying the visual and technical quality of this set. The use of the sizeable pieces of elm wood with a beautiful grain, the unique joinery and angles, and most importantly, Chapo’s genius make these chairs unmistakeable and invaluable.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In very good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some weather marks and discolouration. The elm wood has a beautiful patina.

Dimensions:

16.53 in W x 20.47 in D x 55.11 in H; Seat height 18.11 in

42 cm W x 52 cm D x 140 cm H; Seat height 46 cm

About the designer:

Pierre Chapo, born in Paris in July 1927, was initially interested in becoming a professional painter. However, after a chance meeting with a shipbuilder who introduced him to wood and wood crafts, Chapo changed his focus and decided to study architectural studies at the prestigious École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris.

After graduation, Chapo and his wife, the sculptor and painter Nicole Lormier, started to travel extensively through Scandinavia and Central America. Among the many places the couple visited was the home and studio of Frank Lloyd Wright in Taliesin West. A visit that had a lasting influence on Chapo’s future work and designs. Read more about Pierre Chapo. ~H.