Harry Bertoia's 1950 experiment with bending metal rods into practical art produced a revered collection of seating, including the exquisite Bertoia side chair. Innovative, comfortable and strikingly handsome, the chair's delicate appearance belies its strength and durability. In Bertoia's own words, "If you look at these chairs, they are mainly made of air, like sculpture. Space passes right through them." A classic, modern design that enhances any environment, Bertoia's side chair remains a fascinating study in bent metal and a fixture of mid-century design. Knoll is the only authorized and licensed manufacturer of the Bertoia Collection which has been in continuous production since 1952.

 

 

Italian sculptor, university lecturer and furniture designer, Harry Bertoia was an inventor of form and an enricher of design. He introduced a new material by turning industrial wire rods into a design icon. Educated at the Detroit School of Arts & Crafts and Cranbrook Academy of Art. Bertoia taught metal crafts at Cranbrook while working with Charles Eames to develop his signature molded plywood chairs. Eero Saarinen commissioned him to design a metal sculptured screen for the General Motors Technical Center in Detroit. His awards include the craftsmanship medal from the American Institute of Architects, as well as AIA's Gold Medal.

 

The frames are welded steel with rods of chrome polished or powder-coated paint, available in a variety of color finishes. Seat cushions have fabric edges and secure to chair with lock-snaps. The Bertoia side chair is available unupholstered, with a seat cushion or fully upholstered.

 

With proper care and limited exposure to the elements, the Bertoia Collection unupholstered, with seat cushion or back pad & seat cushion are appropriate for outdoor environments. Please specify powder-coat (red, yellow, green, blue, black or white) and appropriate upholstery - belize, vinyl, noble or rio (if applicable).