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Price category: 15,000 - 20,000 usd / eur

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The “Soriana” line was designed by the Italian designer duo, Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1969. This Soriana chair model was the first piece designed in the collection, and for its design it won the Compasso d'Oro in 1970, one of the most important design awards of that time.

This pair of Post-Modern chairs was manufactured by Cassina and features numerous elements that make the design iconic. The idea for this chair model changed the face of upholstered furniture of Afra and Tobia Scarpa. The designer couple utilized the new possibilities offered by polyurethane foam, which they used to create the unconventional look of leisure of the Soriana. These chairs are often referred to as the single-seat Soriana sofas as there is a three-seater sofa in the line that as well that has the same structural composition. The defining feature of this model is the large upholstered body with a front clamp that expresses beauty and comfort by using a whole bundle of fabric held by the chrome-plated steel clamps. The chars’ aesthetic is further enriched by a quilted effect created with the upholstered, tufted buttons, both on the seat and back cushions.‎ The legs are just as unique as the bodies. The front legs are comprised of two rolls on each chair, making it easy to place them despite their generous size. The back legs are much simpler, serving a primarily functional role.

From all angles, these Soriana chairs are immediately recognizable, which is why they achieved their iconic status through the years. Afra and Tobia Scarpa’s collaboration with Italian manufacturer, Cassina, reached its peak with this line. Established in 1927, Cassina launched industrial design in Italy in the 1950s, with a mindset focused on research and innovation, combining technology and long-standing artisan craftsmanship.

Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The chairs have their original brown fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.

About the designers:

Afra and Tobia Scarpa graduated at the Istituto Universitario di Architettura in Venice and formed one of the most successful and known professional associations. Their works can be found in museums across the USA and Europe such as the MoMA and the Louvre. Their designs like the Soriana sofa exhibit a decidedly modernist aesthetic, prioritizing pared-back elegance and comfort. At the same time, the Scarpas are admired for the ease with which their designs complement both classical and cutting-edge interiors.

The Soriana was created for the Italian manufacturing company Cassina, which is often credited with introducing industrial design to Italy and has built an international reputation for collaborating with some of the world’s most respected designers, including Afra and Tobia Scarpa.

The husband-and-wife duo’s products played an important role in the history of Italian Design and are thriving in the Mid-Century market. The Soriana sofa is a collectors’ piece and part of the history of Italian design destined to increase in value with the time. A piece of true Italian Modernism. ~H.