The Cesca Chair (or Chair Cesca) is one of the most iconic designs of the 20th century, created by the famous Hungarian designer Marcel Breuer in 1928. It is an example of how modernist design revolutionized the concept of furniture and the use of materials in the furniture.
Design and features
The Cesca chair was originally designed for the Italian furniture factory Gavina, which began mass-producing it in 1960, bringing it to international attention. The Cesca chair stands out for its simple, yet elegant structure, which perfectly blends aesthetics and functionality. It is made with a tubular steel frame, a material that Breuer had already used for his other creations (such as the famous B3 chair, also known as the "Wasily Chair").
The main features of the Cesca chair are:
Chromed tubular steel structure: The frame is light, but resistant, and is characterized by an unmistakable curvature which becomes a distinctive element of the design.
Rattan seat and back: The chair features a woven rattan seat and back, giving it comfort and a natural texture. This material is highly appreciated for its resistance and aesthetics that recall the artisan tradition, despite being a modern and functional material.
"X" design: The seat and backrest fit into a frame that has the shape of a stylized "X" when viewed from the side, an element that stands out for its asymmetry and dynamism.
History and importance
The Cesca chair represents a striking example of the innovation of the Bauhaus movement, with its practical and functional approach. Breuer, in fact, within the Bauhaus school, experimented with new industrial materials and production techniques to obtain furniture that was not only beautiful, but also practical, functional and accessible.
The Cesca chair was one of the first chairs to use tubular steel as a load-bearing element, a revolutionary idea at the time. This type of structure allowed not only a saving in materials, but also greater lightness and resistance compared to traditional wooden chairs. Furthermore, the use of rattan as a material for the seat and backrest gave a touch of naturalness and comfort.
Production with Gavina
The Cesca chair was first produced and marketed in 1960 by Gavina, an Italian company that specialized in the production of high-quality modernist furniture. Gavina contributed to consolidating the international success of this chair, which became one of the design icons of the 20th century.
The Cesca chair was produced in different variants, including a version with armrests and one without, and was made in various colors of rattan, but the most famous version remains the one with the chromed steel structure and natural rattan.
Design and cultural impact
The Cesca chair is an icon of modernism and rationalist design, a perfect synthesis between functionality and aesthetics. Its simplicity and the lightness of the structure have made it a highly appreciated piece also for use in public spaces and offices, as well as in private homes. Furthermore, the Cesca chair has become a symbol of modern industrial design, helping to define the style of the 20th century.
Its popularity has lasted to the present day, with production continuing to be carried out by various design companies, including Knoll, who acquired the manufacturing rights. Today, the Cesca chair is still a highly sought-after item in designer collections and in many modern homes, thanks to its timeless beauty and its ability to adapt to a variety of environments.
Curiosity
Name Cesca: The chair takes its name from Francesca, Breuer's daughter, a personal homage that the designer wanted to give to his project.
Design influence: The Cesca chair has influenced many other designers and companies over the decades, becoming one of Breuer's most emblematic works. His functional and innovative approach was fundamental in outlining the design trends of the 20th century.
In summary, the Cesca chair by Marcel Breuer for Gavina is a masterpiece of modernist design, a synthesis of functionality, innovation and beauty that continues to influence the world of design today.
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SILVER Seller in Padova, Italy
