Italian Chrome Flynn Dining Chairs by Gastone Rinaldi for Thema, 1970s, Set of 4

Details

Description

A vintage set of four italian flynn dining chairs in chrome-plated steel with original dark charcoal textile upholstery, designed by … Read more A vintage set of four italian flynn dining chairs in chrome-plated steel with original dark charcoal textile upholstery, designed by gastone rinaldi for thema in italy during the 1970s. Combining sculptural wire basket seats with distinctive cantilever-style tubular frames, these collectible italian modern dining chairs are a particularly expressive example of rinaldi’s experimental approach to metal furniture.

designer: gastone rinaldi
maker: thema
model: flynn
origin: italy
period: 1970s
style: italian modern / mid-century modern / space age
materials: chrome-plated steel, steel wire, original woven textile upholstery, foam
dimensions: 56 w × 63 d × 74 h cm (22.0 w × 24.8 d × 29.1 h in)
seat height: 51 cm (20.1 in)
quantity: set of 4

the flynn has a striking open construction built around a curved wire basket that forms the seat and back, suspended within an elegant chromed tubular frame. The rear wire structure remains intentionally visible, giving the chairs an architectural quality and a strong graphic rhythm from every angle. Deep, softly formed cushions contrast with the precise metal geometry, while the forward-projecting seat and swept frame create the light, almost floating appearance characteristic of the design. This set retains its original dark charcoal woven upholstery, adding a softer and more textural character than the leather versions often encountered.

gastone rinaldi was one of the important figures in post-war italian metal furniture design, developing increasingly experimental seating through the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. After his earlier work with rima, rinaldi established thema in 1974, where the flynn belongs to his continued exploration of chromed tubular steel, wire structures and visually lightweight seating.

condition
good vintage condition with signs of age and use consistent with its period. The original upholstery remains present across all four chairs and shows light age-related wear and gentle variation consistent with use. The chrome frames show small marks, light surface wear and areas of minor oxidation or pitting. On one chair, one of the supporting wire elements has sprung slightly out of position and is no longer sitting fully in line with the surrounding wire structure. This is visible in the detailed photographs. 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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