Modernist bridge armchair. C1950

French Bridge Armchair, circa 1955–1965

This bridge armchair is distinguished by its black-lacquered tubular-steel frame of remarkable visual lightness. Its floating armrests, suspended backrest and slender base recall certain post-war French and Italian furniture explorations, as well as the spirit of some chairs designed by Pierre Guariche and contemporary Italian production.

The armchair retains its striking leopard-print faux-fur upholstery, likely fitted during the early years of its life. This material appears to be part of the object’s very history, reflecting the 1950s and 1960s taste for animal motifs, then found both in fashion and in the boldest interiors.

The contrast between the modernist restraint of its frame and the theatrical character of its upholstery gives it a distinctive personality, at the intersection of design, decoration and fashion.

A characterful piece that will sit naturally in a living room, dressing room, bedroom or eclectic interior, whether used as an occasional chair or as a sculptural accent.

An engaging, hard-to-categorise object, whose charm lies precisely in this unexpected meeting of post-war modernism and the free, hedonistic elegance of the 1960s.

Signs of use consistent with its age: wear to the metal frame and slightly tousled faux fur in places.

Dimensions: Overall H 72 cm × W 64 cm × D 57 cm × seat W 46 cm × seat H 41 cm