P40 Armchair attributed to Giancarlo Vegni and Gianfranco Gualtierotti for Fasem, Italy, 1980s

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There's no doubt that Giancarlo and Gianfranco referenced Hans Wegner's "The Chair" when drawing up this one. The question is … Read more There's no doubt that Giancarlo and Gianfranco referenced Hans Wegner's "The Chair" when drawing up this one. The question is if they did it as a joke or as a token of respect. To answer that, we must look at the choices they made.

The backrest is almost identical in shape to the original, but, instead of being solid, natural oak, it is industrial rubber. Black. While being a far cry from Danish calm and warmth, and closer to the cut-throat business world of the 80s, this is a fine rubber indeed, durable and comfortable. Do check out the close-up photo. The frame is also made in Danish fashion, featuring fusiform legs. Tapering the legs was both an ornamental and a structural solution for Wegner, but doing so in metal, the two Gians' material of choice, requires more effort without any substantial effect.

Given the fine design work and choice of materials, it's safe to say that this chair is not a joke, but a respectful nod to one of the 20th century's best designs. One could argue that using modern materials and no colours other than red and black is also a reference to Bauhaus. So there you have it - Bauhaus and Wegner bundled together by two Italians. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution See less