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Three-legged cedar hallway bench charred using the shou sugi ban tradition

About the Item

Inspired by the regional tradition of the Walser architecture of the Alps, the Charred Panchetta three-legged bench emblematises a process that rests on authenticity and simplicity. Carved by Riccardo from local cedar grown in the high peaks of the Italian Alps, the bench is assembled using only timber nails. The cedar gives it a wonderfully balsamic and aromatic scent. 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. Each one is made to order and so is Unique. The Charred Panchetta is ideal as a hallway table, coffee table or bedroom bench. Please note that the grains and knots of each bench are unique to that piece of timber. Any movements, cracks or changes in the appearance of the wood are intrinsic. The furniture Riccardo Monte creates is sculptural, organic and consciously raw, with depth of texture and a radiance of warmth. He approaches furniture-making as a form of art, creating unique designs inspired by the principles of beauty, simplicity, longevity and craftsmanship. 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. Made from tree trunks, carved by hand, each piece is unique and characterful. 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 process is typically used to prevent insects from attacking the vine and the artist embraced its visual, conservation and tactile qualities. 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. 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:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.78 in (35 cm)Width: 68.9 in (175 cm)Depth: 13 in (33 cm)Seat Height: 13.78 in (35 cm)
  • Style:
    Organic Modern (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    2024
  • Production Type:
    New & Custom(One of a Kind)
  • Estimated Production Time:
    6-7 weeks
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU7993239015422
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