In 1950 the Prouvé research team worked on a new “semi-metal” chair with a metal frame and wooden seat. Development of a knockdown version of this semi-metal chair was speeded up in response to a call for tenders for a university restaurant. Delivered in kit form with assembly instructions, this model was especially intended for export (for which it was given the name Tropique). Variants were developed in which the wood was replaced with materials more suited to a hot climate: in 1951 a prototype with straps was produced, together with a sailcloth version of the stretched-leather model proposed for the Air France headquarters in Brazzaville (Congo), from where this piece comes from. This piece shows a charming original patina.
Prouvé (1901–1984) was a 20th-century pioneer in the innovative production of furniture and architecture. He contributed considerably to the reconstruction and urbanization of postwar France and left an indelible stamp on European material culture.
DESIGNER/
Jean Prouvé
DATE/
1951
MATERIALS/
Bent Sheet Steel, Steel Tube and Molded Plywood
DIMENSIONS/
H 81 x L 41.5 x D 48 cm
STYLE/
Historic
HERITAGE/
France
SHIPS FROM/
Paris
