Gio Ponti, Prototype of armchair, drawing on paper for Knoll, 1960s





In 1964 Gio Ponti was contacted by the furniture company Knoll International and asked to present some ideas for chairs and armchairs. The result of the collaboration was a large wooden dining chair with a cane seat and backrest extremely similar to the 'Leggera' and 'Superleggera' chairs designed for Cassina. Few know, however, that Ponti presented Knoll with many different options, one of which was the current lounge chair. Clearly, the idea was not taken into consideration and remained on paper, particularly on this unique design. It should be noted, however, that the side profile of the armchair is almost identical to that of the 'Parco dei Principi' armchair, designed for the hotel of the same name in Rome in 1964: perhaps Ponti just 'recycled' the concept for that other work. The drawing, which shows signs of age, is in no way compromised. It is accompanied by a photocopy, signed and stamped by Ponti's daughter Lisa Licitra Ponti, and reads (in Italian) 'Drawing by Gio Ponti - study for chairs for Knoll International - 1964'. The drawing is not framed.
ID: 1832-1704736477-79978