Pair of 'Ribbon' Lounge Chairs by Cesare Leonardi and Franca Stagi, c 1969

A rare collectors pair of 'Ribbon' lounge chairs by Cesare Leonardi and Franca Stagi, designed in 1961 and produced by Fiarm - Elco in Sorzé (Venice) Italy, in 1969.

Also known as the 'Nastro' chairs, these iconic model CL-9 'Ribbon' armchairs feature a striking design with a continuous strip of GRP (fiberglass reinforced with resin), elegantly molded into a ribbon-like form. Mounted on a chrome/steel tubular frame with large elongated rubber shock mounts, the chairs exhibit a cantilevered construction that provides a subtle spring, enhancing comfort and style.

A rare variant of the commonly found Ribbon chairs, this pair has buttons for seat and back cushions to be secured adding additional comfort to this slick design. No cushions accompany this pair of chairs but can be added with fabric or leather of your choice.

Ideal for enthusiasts of 1960s and 1970s Space Age design, these 'Ribbon' chairs not only embody sophisticated Italian design but also represent a significant piece of 20th century modern design history. 

ABOUT THE DESIGNER:

Cesare Leonardi (Modena, 1935 - 2021) and Franca Stagi (1937 - 2008) were influential Italian architects and designers known for their pioneering work in modernist architecture, furniture design, and urban planning.

Leonardi, a graduate of the University of Florence, excelled in fiberglass furniture and also pursued photography, sculpture, and painting. Stagi, trained at Milan Polytechnic, specialized in urban planning and industrial design.

They co-founded their studio in Modena in 1963, gaining acclaim for innovative fiberglass designs like the Nastro (Ribbon) and Dondolo seating, now in prestigious museum collections worldwide. Their practice from 1970 to 1980 focused on architecture, parks, and public structures that harmonized with nature.

After their studio disbanded, Leonardi continued with modular furniture and urban planning innovations, including the Bosco Albergati park (1988). Stagi focused on public architecture restoration in Modena.

In 2019, the Cartier Foundation in Paris honored their influential tree study. Their work is showcased in MoMA, New York, the V&A, London, and the Vitra Design Museum, Weil am Rhein.

The Archivio Architetto Cesare Leonardi (established 2010) and Archivio di Franca Stagi (organized at Luigi Poletti Civic Art Library, Modena, 2011) preserve their impactful legacies.

EXHIBITIONS:

Philadelphia Museum of Art

MEASUREMENTS:

H 25" x W 37" x D 28"

CONDITION:

Very good vintage condition with light patina. Ready for immediate use.