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Low bench hand carved in larch and charred using the shou sugi ban tradition

About the Item

'Charred Larch Bench' by Italian designer-maker Riccardo Monte is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, ideal as a hall table for example. Inspired by the regional tradition of the Walser architecture of the Alps, it emblematises a process that rests on authenticity and simplicity. Carved from local larch grown in the high peaks of the Italian Alps, the bench has been assembled using only timber nails. It is finished with the ancient Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, the art of preserving wood using fire. The charring both protects the timber and creates a beautiful lustre and smoothness to the wood’s surface. Any movements, cracks or changes in the appearance of the wood are intrinsic characteristics of these items and result from the natural settlement and diverse environmental conditions of the wood and should be expected. If used outside, the intensity of the charred timber will fade to grey over time. Riccardo Monte began exploring timber charring – his signature technique – after firing the bottom of wooden posts that propped up swathes of grape vines he had planted in the grounds of his home. This technique is typically used to prevent insects from attacking the vine. He embraced the visual, conservation and tactile qualities of this technique, which was originally evolved to preserve timber. The furniture Riccardo Monte creates is sculptural, organic and consciously raw, with depth of texture and a radiance of warmth. Made from tree trunks, carved by hand, each piece is unique and characterful. The artist is directly involved in the design and the hand-made process of each product. All materials are sourced locally and he employs traditional craft techniques combined with a modern sensibility. He approaches furniture-making as a form of art, creating unique designs inspired by the principles of beauty, simplicity, longevity and craftsmanship. Following eight years working as an architect in London, Riccardo Monte returned to his mountainside home in Ornavasso, Italy. This shift in geography and tempo gave structure to his solo practice, which centres on exploring and elevating natural materials through low intervention processes. He takes cues from the Alpine Walser culture of the region – an architectural legacy characterised by the pared-down structures of houses, barns and sheds. In his own practice, he looks to capture these qualities. When he first left city life, he spent six months living in a mountain cabin with no electrical power. The remoteness and solitude of his time there brought him closer to nature and the values of a simple life. Today, he is based in his studio-home, nestled close to the Swiss border in the Alps, working collaboratively with his English partner Katie – a photographer and filmmaker. Today his handcrafted homeware and furniture retails internationally from the UK and Europe to Japan and the USA. His architectural projects include cultural, residential and exhibition projects. Helen Chislett Gallery represents artists, sculptors and makers across all disciplines.

Creator:

Riccardo Monte (Maker)

Dimensions:

Height: 17.72 in (45 cm)Width: 98.43 in (250 cm)Depth: 8.86 in (22.5 cm)Seat Height: 17.72 in (45 cm)

Style:

Organic Modern (In the Style Of)

Materials and Techniques:

Softwood,Fired,Hand-Carved

Place of Origin:

Italy

Period:

2010-