Mid-Century Modern PJ-SI-36-A Sofa Chair by Pierre Jeanneret, Chandigarh, 1955

Here the silhouette is strong. It is presented through the outline and shape of the piece. The void between becomes an important part of the item itself. It demonstrates different visual qualities from different angles. This piece is not an industrial mass product. It is a historic piece, so it’s unique. That has an impact on the value, where it acts as a collector’s item too. All massive wood parts are authentic. They are done in Indian teak. Rich in texture, the wood is vivid and comes in chocolate colour. The surface is treated with shellac and there are several layers of original shellac. It provides smooth irregular gloss different from that of the sterile lacquerware nowadays. Charming irregularities show that each piece is unique. The item is engraved on the side with lettering, which makes it more valuable. Chandigarh items are famous for A-shaped legs. Many desks, chairs, armchairs, and sideboards have these legs, so the pieces remind us of sturdy structural constructions, such as bridge pillars that carry their weight, or some of Le Corbusier’s buildings. The A-shaped legs have sharper corners and are strict and sturdy in their geometry. Their angle and position show that Pierre Jeanneret, together with Jean Prouvé and Le Corbusier, had a structural, not decorative, expression. The upholstery is redone in a traditional way. As wire springs were used for the original seat, we upholstered it accordingly. Unlike the initial upholstery of Chandigarh items in skai, this has been redone in high-end cow hides in grey colour. L-shaped seat and A-shaped legs are two abstract elements that create a clear, minimalist shape. This game of soft and sharp, together with the proportions and precise details shape a geometrical expression which is reduced to the minimum. I think the piece blends well with many interior styles. It can support pure, modern aesthetics by giving them a warmer character with its natural material. As an easy chair with a strong character, it fits in a living area or in a reading corner. One of my personal favourites. 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: Eric Touchaleaume and Gerald Moreau, 'Le Corbusier Pierre Jeanneret: The Indian Adventure, Design-Art-Architecture' (Paris: Gourcuff Gradenigo, 2011), 565-6. Edition Galerie Patrick Seguin: 'Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret: Chandigarh, India' (Paris: Galerie Patrick Seguin, 2014), 150.