top of back support slightly curved; central back support bar is made up of two U-shapes with three lozenges between; cane seat; curved bent wood legs, feet and side supports

Boppard chair, c. 1836-1840

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Indelibly identified as classics of modern design, the remarkable bentwood furnishings of Gebrüder Thonet continue to turn heads more than a century later. The history of bentwood furniture dates back centuries, but it was Michael Thonet, an enterprising cabinetmaker from Boppard-am-Rein in Germany, who propelled the notion of steam-bending woods (and subsequently, tubular metal) into the 20th century, representing a significant passage from craft to industrial production.

In 1819, Thonet began producing delicate, lightweight Biedermeier designs in his hometown, one surrounded by forests. This led to experiments with laminated wood a decade later. Having gained the patronage of Prince Metternich, he moved to Vienna where this side chair was made. Today, this chair serves as a celebrated example in which the stylish forms of Biedermeier furniture converge with a new, revolutionary technology.

Incidentally, we continue to struggle with the correct pronunciation, many preferring the French Tho-Nay rather than the correct German TONN-ett.

Details
Title
Boppard chair
Artist Life
German (Prussian), 1796-1871
Role
Designer
Accession Number
2005.117
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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top of back support slightly curved; central back support bar is made up of two U-shapes with three lozenges between; cane seat; curved bent wood legs, feet and side supports