Renè Herbst - Chair (4) - Sandows - Steel, Elastic
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Set of four Sandows chairs designed by René Herbst, with tubular steel frames and elastic suspension, made in France, each chair measuring 42 cm wide, 51 cm deep, 80 cm high with a 47 cm seat height, dating to 1970–1980, in excellent condition.
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Description from the seller
Icon of French Rationalism: Set of 4 Sandows Chairs – Design René Herbst (1928)
We present at auction a true gem of modernist avant-garde: a set of 4 chairs "Sandows," conceived in 1928 by the renowned French architect and designer René Herbst. Displayed for the first time at the Salon d'Automne in Paris in 1929, these seats represent one of the very first and bold experiments in integrating 'poor' technical and industrial elements into high-end interior design. A work of sculptural charm with unmistakable visual transparency.
Design and History: The Invention of Elastic Cords
Historically known as the "Iron Man," René Herbst blew apart the conventions of traditional furniture by introducing components never before used in home furniture:
Industrial Inspiration: Herbst's revolutionary idea was to use elastic cords with metal hooks (the so-called sandows, commonly used to secure luggage on bicycles) to construct the seat and backrest.
The Aesthetics of Transparency: The continuous steel tube frame, joined by taut black tensioners, creates a pure geometric design that lets light pass through, ensuring extraordinary visual lightness and flexible ergonomic comfort.
Lot Conditions: Excellent Conservational State
The set of 4 chairs is presented in generally excellent condition:
Steel Frame: The tubular steel frames are solid, stable, and free of structural defects. The surfaces have regained their splendid original shine following a recent conservational cleaning and polishing intervention.
Suspension System: The elastic elements are slightly slackened, a detail entirely natural and coherent with the age and use of the pieces, preserving the authenticity and historical patina of the lot without compromising usability.
Dimensions (each chair)
Width: 42 cm
Depth: 51 cm
Height: 80 cm
The Designer: René Herbst
Founder of the Union des Artistes Modernes (UAM) together with figures such as Robert Mallet-Stevens, Le Corbusier, and Charlotte Perriand, René Herbst (1891-1982) was one of the leading theorists of French rationalism. His purist vision and research into industrial functionality marked the transition to contemporary design, making his creations cult pieces sought after by international collectors and included in the collections of the most important decorative arts museums.
Shipping and Insurance
Our company ORVETT includes shipping insurance in the rates indicated for Italy and Europe. For overseas shipments, we will prepare a personalized quote targeted to the end of the auction based on the final destination of the lot.
Seller's Story
ORVETT is your preferred destination to discover and acquire the best of Italian design, from iconic creations of the 1950s to the present day. We are passionate about both masterpieces recognized by the general public and the most sought-after rarities, selecting each piece with the utmost care.
With over thirty years of experience in the industry, our dedicated team meticulously prepares each item, ensuring it is presented at its best. Our mission goes beyond simply offering extraordinary design pieces: we are committed to providing excellent customer service.
Clear and timely communication, professional packaging, safe transportation, and efficient after-sales service are the pillars of our commitment. We aim to build lasting trust with our buyers worldwide, knowing that a satisfied customer is a customer who will return to choose ORVETT.
Translated by Google TranslateIcon of French Rationalism: Set of 4 Sandows Chairs – Design René Herbst (1928)
We present at auction a true gem of modernist avant-garde: a set of 4 chairs "Sandows," conceived in 1928 by the renowned French architect and designer René Herbst. Displayed for the first time at the Salon d'Automne in Paris in 1929, these seats represent one of the very first and bold experiments in integrating 'poor' technical and industrial elements into high-end interior design. A work of sculptural charm with unmistakable visual transparency.
Design and History: The Invention of Elastic Cords
Historically known as the "Iron Man," René Herbst blew apart the conventions of traditional furniture by introducing components never before used in home furniture:
Industrial Inspiration: Herbst's revolutionary idea was to use elastic cords with metal hooks (the so-called sandows, commonly used to secure luggage on bicycles) to construct the seat and backrest.
The Aesthetics of Transparency: The continuous steel tube frame, joined by taut black tensioners, creates a pure geometric design that lets light pass through, ensuring extraordinary visual lightness and flexible ergonomic comfort.
Lot Conditions: Excellent Conservational State
The set of 4 chairs is presented in generally excellent condition:
Steel Frame: The tubular steel frames are solid, stable, and free of structural defects. The surfaces have regained their splendid original shine following a recent conservational cleaning and polishing intervention.
Suspension System: The elastic elements are slightly slackened, a detail entirely natural and coherent with the age and use of the pieces, preserving the authenticity and historical patina of the lot without compromising usability.
Dimensions (each chair)
Width: 42 cm
Depth: 51 cm
Height: 80 cm
The Designer: René Herbst
Founder of the Union des Artistes Modernes (UAM) together with figures such as Robert Mallet-Stevens, Le Corbusier, and Charlotte Perriand, René Herbst (1891-1982) was one of the leading theorists of French rationalism. His purist vision and research into industrial functionality marked the transition to contemporary design, making his creations cult pieces sought after by international collectors and included in the collections of the most important decorative arts museums.
Shipping and Insurance
Our company ORVETT includes shipping insurance in the rates indicated for Italy and Europe. For overseas shipments, we will prepare a personalized quote targeted to the end of the auction based on the final destination of the lot.
Seller's Story
ORVETT is your preferred destination to discover and acquire the best of Italian design, from iconic creations of the 1950s to the present day. We are passionate about both masterpieces recognized by the general public and the most sought-after rarities, selecting each piece with the utmost care.
With over thirty years of experience in the industry, our dedicated team meticulously prepares each item, ensuring it is presented at its best. Our mission goes beyond simply offering extraordinary design pieces: we are committed to providing excellent customer service.
Clear and timely communication, professional packaging, safe transportation, and efficient after-sales service are the pillars of our commitment. We aim to build lasting trust with our buyers worldwide, knowing that a satisfied customer is a customer who will return to choose ORVETT.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Number of objects
4
Country of origin
France
Model
Sandows
Designer/artist/maker
Renè Herbst
Material
Elastic, Steel
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
80 cm
Width
42 cm
Depth
51 cm
Estimated period
1970-1980
Seating height
47 cm
