Nwa-Mulamula’s Chaise marked celebrated fashion designers Rich Mnisi’s breakthrough into collectible furniture. With its rounded, sensual forms and imposing physicality, this upholstered leather piece is in homage to the memory of Rich’s late great-great-grand mother, whose teachings have lived on in his family generation after generation. Like his 2018 fashion collection of the same name, the chaise takes its title from this central matriarch – “Nwa-Mulamula” means “guardian” in Xitsonga. Rich has said: “I see her as symbol to pay homage to the role of African mothers whose stories are either seldom documented or given the light they deserve.” Originally made in dark navy leather, this version of the chaise is featured in a textured, rustic taupe.

DATE/

2019

MATERIALS/

Upholstered leather

DIMENSIONS/

268 x 130 x 68 cm

STYLE/

Contemporary

HERITAGE/

South Africa