Monk Lounge Chair by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Molteni, Italy, 1974

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This exceptionally rare and iconic “Monk” low lounge chair, designed by the renowned duo Afra and Tobia Scarpa and manufactured … Read more This exceptionally rare and iconic “Monk” low lounge chair, designed by the renowned duo Afra and Tobia Scarpa and manufactured by Molteni in Italy in 1974, is a true collector’s piece and a testament to 1970s Italian design excellence. Featuring a solid walnut frame paired with a natural canvas seat, this chair embodies the sophisticated material contrasts and minimalist aesthetics that defined the era. The ingenious design of the Monk chair showcases the Scarpa duo’s masterful ability to balance form and function.

The walnut frame is meticulously crafted, with its four legs constructed in paired configurations that hold the canvas seat in a way that gives it a striking, almost floating appearance. This combination of structural simplicity and visual elegance sets the Monk lounge chair apart as a standout example of mid-century modern design. The walnut wood, with its warm tones and rich grain, complements the natural canvas seat beautifully. These materials, popular during the 1970s, remain timeless, and the harmonious interplay between them enhances the chair’s visual appeal. The canvas seat is in stunning original condition, a rarity for a piece of this age, making it both a functional and aesthetic delight. This lounge chair version is extremely rare, likely produced in very limited numbers, adding to its desirability among collectors and design enthusiasts. Despite its age, the chair remains in very good original condition, with no notable signs of wear. Its low-profile design ensures both comfort and elegance, making it a perfect centerpiece for a sophisticated interior. A masterpiece of Italian design history, the Monk lounge chair is a striking example of Afra and Tobia Scarpa’s enduring legacy.

Literature; Repertorio Del Design Italiano 195o~2000 Volume 1 Giuliana Gramigna, page 222 Afra e Tobia Sarpa, architetti 1959-1999, Tobia Scarpa, Architetto 2000 – 2009 Electa Architecture page 162. 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



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