Eileen Gray's legendary 'Bibendum' chair, a masterpiece of 20th-century modern design, reaches its centenary, marking a significant milestone in furniture history. Aram, the exclusive worldwide licensee for Gray's creations since 1973, honors this occasion with a meticulously crafted limited-edition release. This iconic piece, recognized for its distinctive form and artistic flair, continues to captivate audiences a century after its initial debut. The chair's innovative structure and cultural impact solidify its place as a timeless artifact, transcending mere functionality to become a symbol of design ingenuity.
This special edition not only pays homage to Gray's pioneering spirit but also reiterates the chair's persistent relevance in contemporary design dialogues. Through this commemorative offering, Aram upholds its commitment to preserving the integrity and heritage of Eileen Gray's extraordinary work, ensuring that new generations can experience the profound beauty and revolutionary vision encapsulated in the 'Bibendum' chair.
The Legacy and Design Philosophy of Eileen Gray's 'Bibendum' Chair
Eileen Gray's 'Bibendum' chair, unveiled a century ago in 1926, revolutionized modern furniture design with its bold and sculptural aesthetic. This iconic piece is characterized by its distinctive backrest, composed of stacked padded cylindrical cushions, a generously proportioned seat, and a sleek tubular steel frame. The chair's unique name, referencing the original Michelin Man, Bibendum, underscores Gray's subtle wit and playful approach to design. Beyond its functional purpose, the 'Bibendum' chair stands as a significant cultural artifact, blurring the lines between art and utility. Its innovative construction challenged traditional notions of comfort and form, cementing Gray's reputation as a visionary in the field.
Gray seamlessly integrated the 'Bibendum' chair into her prominent interior projects throughout the late 1920s and 1930s, notably in a commission for fashion entrepreneur Juliette Lévy. Early versions were upholstered in fabric or skai, a leather-like vinyl, and were proudly displayed at Gray's Jean Desert gallery in Paris. These original examples are now exceptionally rare, with only a few believed to remain in private collections, making them highly coveted pieces for collectors and enthusiasts. Today, the 'Bibendum' chair is predominantly found in prestigious museum collections worldwide, serving as a testament to its enduring influence and historical significance in the evolution of modern design. Its presence in these institutions ensures that Gray's pioneering vision continues to inspire and educate on the transformative power of design.
Aram's Centenary Edition: Honoring Authenticity and Craftsmanship
To celebrate the 'Bibendum' chair's remarkable 100-year journey, Aram, the esteemed holder of Eileen Gray's design licenses since 1973, has unveiled an exclusive limited collector's edition. This special release, comprising just 100 pieces, precisely marks a century since the chair's initial conception. Aram's profound connection with Gray, fostered through their close collaboration during her lifetime, ensures the unwavering authenticity of her designs. This centenary edition is a testament to Aram's dedication to maintaining the original spirit and meticulous craftsmanship that defined Gray's work, while making it accessible to a new generation of design aficionados. Each chair in this limited collection is a meticulously crafted homage to Gray's vision, blending historical reverence with contemporary appeal.
Produced in partnership with ClassiCon, the sublicensee for Gray designs outside the UK, the centenary edition features luxurious Sørensen Duet nubuck gold leather. This material was chosen for its exceptional softness and its ability to develop a rich patina over time, enhancing the chair's aesthetic appeal and tactile quality. The design is further elevated by a nickel-plated base, which meticulously replicates the tone and sheen of the early models, ensuring a faithful reproduction of Gray's original intent. To emphasize its exclusivity and provenance, each chair is individually stamped with its unique edition number, making it a distinctive collector's item. A century after its creation, the 'Bibendum' chair continues to exude a compelling allure, and this centenary edition not only honors Eileen Gray's profound legacy but also unequivocally reaffirms its status as a landmark of modern design, poised to be cherished by future generations as a true icon of furniture artistry.