Pair of "Gabriella" Chairs by Gio Ponti

The typology of folding chairs was at one point an object of much interest in Italy. Deriving from 19th century Campaign furniture, but expressing the revolutionary values of temporariness and portability beloved of post-'68 European "Ad Hoc" culture, the folding chair became de rigeur as a design exercise for a great many Italian architects.

Gio Ponti devised the chic "Gabriella" (one of his last chair designs) at the height of the Italian craze for folding chairs, and it is one of the best of the breed. The Gabriella's novel use of a very shallow seat contrasting (in the desirable high-backed version, of which this pair are examples) with a very tall back sets up attenuated, almost neo-Mannerist proportions which are nevertheless accommodating for a wide variety of body shapes. Made in Mantova, Italy by Walter Ponti (evidently no relation).

In excellent original condition. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Signed with manufacturer's decal label: [design Gio Ponti per Walter Ponti San Biagio - Mantova Italy].