Vintage 969 Volute Chairs in Ivory Velvet by Gio Ponti, Montina, 1970, Set of 12

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Originally conceived by Gio Ponti for the VI Triennale di Milano in 1936, this exceptional and remarkably large set of … Read more Originally conceived by Gio Ponti for the VI Triennale di Milano in 1936, this exceptional and remarkably large set of twelve “969” dining chairs was reissued by Montina during the 1970s, faithfully preserving the expressive character and formal clarity of Ponti’s celebrated design. Finding twelve matching examples together is particularly rare, making this complete ensemble ideally suited to an important dining room, a large conference table or a sophisticated hospitality project. The chairs are defined by their extraordinary backrests in curved plywood. Four elongated teardrop-shaped openings alternate across an undulating profile, creating a continuous sequence of volutes that appears almost handwritten. The result is a highly recognizable, calligraphic silhouette in which solid wood and negative space form a graceful visual rhythm. Their slender solid beech frames feature finely tapered legs and delicate cylindrical cross-stretchers, giving the chairs an exceptionally light and airy appearance. At the front of each seat, a subtle triangular wooden detail rises into the upholstery, recalling the refined structural language later associated with Ponti’s iconic Superleggera chair. All twelve chairs have undergone a complete professional restoration, including a thorough anti-woodworm treatment and careful structural consolidation. The wooden frames were refinished by hand using the traditional French-polishing technique with shellac, consistent with period craftsmanship. This meticulous process enhances the grain and warm amber tones of the beech, giving the surfaces a rich depth and an elegant, luminous sheen. The seats have been completely rebuilt and newly padded, ensuring excellent comfort while respecting the original proportions. They are upholstered in a luxurious ivory/off-white plush velvet with an exceptionally soft and tactile finish. The velvet has a fine directional nap: as the pile is brushed or touched, its surface subtly changes tone, producing a delicate light-and-dark shading effect. Depending on the direction of the pile and the surrounding light, the upholstery shifts between warmer cream and brighter ivory nuances, beautifully complementing the glowing honey-colored wood. Despite their visually delicate construction, the chairs are solid, stable and well balanced. Their repeating backs create an especially striking effect when the twelve pieces are arranged around a large table, transforming the set into a rhythmic architectural composition. A rare opportunity to acquire a complete set of twelve historically significant Gio Ponti chairs, professionally restored with close attention to their original materials, proportions and period-appropriate finishing techniques. 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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