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Mid Century Medea Chairs by Vittorio Nobili for Fratelli Tagliabue, 1950s
About the Item
Stunning set of four "Medea" chairs by Vittorio Nobili, an icon of 1950s Italian design.
Designed in 1955 and produced by the historic Tagliabue company, these chairs embody the elegance and innovation that defined postwar Italian design. Their most distinctive feature is the refined use of molded wood, a technique that allows for light, flowing forms while preserving the material's strength.
Crafted from beech plywood with a high-quality mahogany veneer, the Medea chairs feature a single shell seat with sinuous, welcoming lines. A hallmark of their design is the central cutout-an aesthetic and functional element that enhances both the chair's flexibility and user comfort.
The base consists of slender, black lacquered metal legs, offering a visual lightness without compromising stability or durability.
The Medea chair perfectly embodies the spirit of mid-century modernism-a movement that revolutionized interior design with its essential, forward-thinking approach. The warm tone of the wood and the light metal structure create a perfect aesthetic balance, making these chairs ideal for timeless and sophisticated interiors.
This attention to detail and ergonomic function was recognized in 1956 when the Medea won the prestigious Compasso d'Oro award-one of the most important honors in the design world.
Today, Medea chairs are highly sought-after by collectors and vintage design enthusiasts. They have recently returned to production in a limited edition reissued by Dimore Studio.
Their artisanal quality and timeless elegance make them a valuable addition to any space-whether for those wishing to enhance their home with an iconic design piece or for those viewing them as a true investment.
With enduring charm and historic significance, they are perfectly suited for a variety of settings, from refined residential interiors to the most exclusive spaces, confirming their status as masterpieces of Italian design.
The chairs are in excellent overall vintage condition, with only minor signs of age as shown in the photos-remarkable given their 70+ years.
Product Name: "Medea" Chairs by Vittorio Nobili for Fratelli Tagliabue, 1950s
Designer: Vittorio Nobili
Design Year: 1955
Style: Mid-Century Modern
Primary Materials: Beech plywood with mahogany veneer; black lacquered metal base
Distinctive Design: Single-piece molded wood seat with flowing lines and a central cutout for improved flexibility and ergonomics
Dimensions: Height 82 cm (32.3 in) Width 53 cm (20.9 in) Depth 47 cm (18.5 in) Seat Height 45 cm (17.7 in)
Comfort: Flexible and enveloping structure, designed to provide natural comfort through the curved shape and central opening
Typical Use: Elegant residential interiors, design studios, dining rooms, or exclusive vintage-style spaces
Design Icon: Winner of the Compasso d'Oro in 1956, the Medea is regarded as a postwar Italian design masterpiece thanks to its innovative use of molded wood
Versatility: Suitable for both classic and contemporary interiors; seamlessly integrates into timeless and refined spaces
Condition: Highly collectible and sought-after; recently reissued by Dimore Studio as a testament to their lasting appeal
Additional Notes: The chairs are in excellent vintage condition. They have been carefully restored and finished with a natural shellac and beeswax treatment, preserving the original patina without a glossy varnish. Minor age marks may be present, which do not affect functionality. Please consider these characteristics before purchasing.
- Creator:Vittorio Nobili (Designer),Fratelli Tagliabue (Manufacturer)
- Dimensions:Height: 32.29 in (82 cm)Width: 20.87 in (53 cm)Depth: 18.51 in (47 cm)Seat Height: 17.72 in (45 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 4
- Style:Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1950
- Condition:Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use. No structural damage. They have been carefully restored and finished with a natural shellac and beeswax treatment, preserving the original patina without a glossy varnish.
- Seller Location:Conversano, IT
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU8395244491682
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