Molar' Gel-Coated Fiberglass Loveseat Sofa by Wendell Castle, c. 1969
This rare early production collectors piece is a circa 1969 'Molar' settee by Wendell Castle (American, 1932-2018) made from gel-coated white fiberglass with molded white rubber footing.
As Wendell Castle continued production on the Molar group of furniture over the decades, and other reproductions came into market including the ones by Clone, early examples like this one with their original finish and original rubber footing are highly desirable by collectors.
We highly advise not refinishing or repainting these, as it can reduce the desirability for collectors. I have an early production 'Castle' chair, which is also part of Wendell Castle's fiberglass series, in my private collection that is very worn and aged. And while most sellers would repaint and refinish it, it is the very last thing I would personally do. It is the visible age that attracts me, as a collector, to these pieces as that is one easy way to differentiate original production examples to new ones. Another way to tell is simply looking on the underside of the fiberglass, but still collectors generally prefer the original color and finish despite any apparent age and wear. This Molar settee was in my private collection for the past 5 years and since we just moved to a new home I am selling this fantastic piece.
This rare Wendell Castle 'Molar' fiberglass loveseat sofa would work great in a Post-Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Space Age Mod, Scandanavian Modern or Danish Modern home or penthouse apartment but could also look fantastic in a Contemporary or Zen / Minimalism room. Also consider mixing it up in a Traditional, Transitional, Hollywood Regency, Classical or Art Deco room with a splash of juxtaposition. Would also be an apt choice in a commercial project such as a hotel lobby lounge or members club, creative design studio or high-rise executive office.
MEASUREMENTS:
H 25" x W 52" x D 34"
Seat Height: 14.5"
Seat Depth: 17"
Arm Height: 21.5"
CONDITION
Good vintage condition with light age and minor wear. Some spots, more noticeable to seat. While the color is white, it does appear to have some sun fading. Attractive vintage example in original finish, ready for immediate use in a vintage or collector setting.