Anonima Castelli - Giancarlo Piretti - Chair - Plia - Acrylic, Chrome, Metal, Plastic

Plia – Anonima Castelli – Design Giancarlo Piretti – Iconic Italian foldable chair from the 1960s/70s

Iconic Plia chair, designed in 1967 by Giancarlo Piretti for Anonima Castelli, a true symbol of Italian design of the 20th century.

A object of great charm and historical significance, capable of marrying elegance, technical innovation and extraordinary functionality. Plia represents one of the most famous interpretations of the folding chair, which over time has become a true classic of mid-century modern design and a sought-after piece by vintage design enthusiasts.

Description of the object

The chair features a refined chrome metal frame, paired with a seat and backrest in transparent plastic material, today characterized by a suggestive slightly amber hue typical of the material’s aging.

The essential lines, transparency and the shine of the metal give the object a light, timeless aesthetics.

Particularly interesting is the original closing mechanism, characterized by the ingenious side joints that allow the chair to fold with a fluid and compact movement.

A technical detail that constitutes one of the project’s distinctive elements and testifies to Piretti’s exceptional attention to functionality and design research.

The chair bears the original mark on the frame:

“plia. PATENT ANONIMA CASTELLI. ITALY”

An important identifying element documenting its Italian origin and production.

Historical notes – Anonima Castelli and Giancarlo Piretti

Founded in 1877, Anonima Castelli is a historic Italian company that has contributed decisively to the evolution of modern furniture, distinguished by quality of construction, technological innovation and collaboration with important designers.

In 1967 the Bologna-born designer Giancarlo Piretti designed the famous Plia, presented to the public in 1969 and destined to become one of the company’s greatest successes.

The project revolutionized the traditional concept of the folding chair thanks to the innovative articulation system, the transparency of the surfaces and the elegance of the chrome frame.

Plia achieved important international recognitions, including the prestigious BIO 5 at the Ljubljana Design Biennial in 1971, entering the history of Italian industrial design.

The model is also represented in the collections of major museum institutions dedicated to design, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Condition report

The chair is presented in vintage condition, with signs of aging and use visible on the transparent surfaces and on the chrome frame.

There are superficial scratches, slight hazing and a natural color variation of the plastic, which has taken on a characteristic amber hue.

These elements attest to the age and authenticity of the item, without compromising its aesthetic charm.

Prospective buyers are invited to study carefully the numerous photographs, which form an integral part of the description and document details, branding and actual condition.

An icon of collectible design

Plia is not merely a folding chair, but an authentic testimony to the creativity and ingenuity of Italian design of the 1960s.

Its presence in museum collections and its international recognizability make it a particularly interesting object for collectors, architects, interior designers and vintage enthusiasts.

Perfect for enhancing contemporary spaces, vintage interiors, professional studios or collections dedicated to the great masters of design.

An evergreen Made in Italy classic, where aesthetics, history and innovation meet in a project that has become legendary.
Tracked and insured shipment, proper packing.