Mid-Century Modern Standard Chairs by Jean Prouvé, 1950s, Set of 2

These items express a specific rawness. There is no need for precise execution or the desire to appear sophisticated. They are simple, self-evident, and direct. They are made out of basic elements, illustrating a new language: essential and cleared of everything irrelevant. Sculptural qualities define these objects. A vivid dynamic between the different volumes and surfaces, showing different qualities from different angles. These chairs were produced in France for Cité Cansado, a town in north-western Mauritania, built for the iron ore mining company MIFERMA. All wood parts are authentic. They are done in plywood with oak veneers. Slightly curved, the seats present an appearance of unmistakable familiarity. Aerodynamic shape of the back legs reveals a form which is rounded at the edges and gets wider at the contact with the seat. It seems like they are the spine which defines the silhouette of the piece, unlike the front ones, which are much lighter and inexpressive in their geometry. Still in their original condition, they are made in steel which was painted in black colour. To keep the value of the items and their authenticity, the finish wasn’t overpainted, while the character of the surface was preserved in its original condition. Its surface is slightly waxed with beeswax, which protects it while presenting a natural, subtle gloss. Plastic feet which originally protected the bottom surface of the legs are missing. I think this pair blends well with many interior styles. As chairs, they are usable for dining and working, supporting the back nicely. P! Galerie’s selection is mainly focused on rare French mid-century modern design artefacts by Pierre Jeanneret, Jean Prouvé, Le Corbusier, and Charlotte Perriand. Artefacts from our carefully curated collection are handpicked, and all traces and important indicators of authenticity are evaluated professionally. We try to preserve as much of patina as possible during the process of restoration, as it defines these historic pieces. Each object comes with a certificate of authenticity, offering you the opportunity to own a valuable artefact originating from a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Not only do we cooperate with museums and offer auction houses our services and expert opinion, we also look forward to welcoming you as a private collector and connoisseur. Literature: Peter Sulzer, ‘Jean Prouvé Complete Works, Volume 3: 1944-1954’ (Basel: Birkhäuser, 2004), 205. Catherine Prouvé & Catherine Coley, ‘Jean Prouvé’ (Paris: Galerie Patrick Seguin and Sonnabend Gallery, 2007), 234, 260-265. Provenance: Cité Cansado, Mauritania.