Knoll - Marcel Breuer - Chair - Wassily Chair - Steel, Leather

Marcel Breuer's B3 Wassily Chair for Knoll International

An icon of 20th-century design, the Wassily chair (Model B3) is up for auction in its most sought-after configuration: chrome-plated steel tubular frame and high-quality black leather upholstery. Designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, this seat marked the beginning of modern design, transforming an industrial material into a piece of domestic art.

Design and history:
The distinctive feature of the Wassily chair is the revolutionary use of weld-free steel tubing, inspired by the Adler bicycle frame. The structure is a geometric play of continuous lines that support strips of taut leather or fabric, creating a seat that seems to float in space. In Breuer's vision, the chair was meant to be transparent, light, and industrially produced, perfectly embodying the functionalist aesthetics of the Bauhaus.
It was the very first chair to use tubular steel for domestic use, totally breaking with the tradition of heavy upholstered furniture.

Lot conditions:
The Wassily chair offered in the auction is in generally excellent used condition.
Frame: the chrome-plated frame is solid and intact and shows only some minor signs of use and aging that enhance its vintage charm. It retains its original luster thanks to a recent cleaning and polishing.
Upholstery: the upholstery is taut and well preserved, a sign of truly limited use. It is, in fact, in excellent condition, with only some natural signs of wear due to the passage of time. The premium black leather has been cleaned, sanitized, and treated with professional nourishing products to revive its look and softness.
Authenticity: the item's originality is guaranteed by the Knoll International label on the frame.

Dimensions:
Height: 72 cm
Width: 79 cm
Depth: 72 cm
Seat height: 45 cm

The Designer: Marcel Breuer
Marcel Breuer (1902-1981) was a pioneer in using tubular steel in furniture. His training at the Bauhaus, where he later taught, led him to experiment with materials and forms, giving rise to innovative and functional creations. The Wassily chair, conceived in 1925, is a emblematic example of his approach, inspired by the bicycle frame and the pursuit of lightness and strength.

The Manufacturer: Knoll International
Founded in 1938 by Hans and Florence Knoll, Knoll International is a globally leading American company in industrial design, faithful to the Bauhaus movement’s philosophy. The company produces modern, sought-after, and functional furnishings. Many of its cult pieces, such as Bertoia’s Diamond Chair, are exhibited in the world’s major design museums.

Shipping and Insurance:
Our company ORVETT includes transport insurance in the indicated shipping costs. For overseas shipping, the cost is indicative. We will formulate a quote after the auction closes depending on the destination.