Gerald Summers Bent Ply Chair
British
Designed Circa 1935
Designed by Gerald Summers (1899-1967)
Made by 'Makers of Simple Furniture' (1932 - 1940)
This strikingly designed, ingenious chair has the legs and back supports made from two cut and bent pieces of plywood whose 'N' shaped forms support the gently curving seat and back. The Summers' family believe this rare chair to be the only known surviving example. It is described in the 'Makers of Simple Furniture' catalogue sheet as, "Suitable for occasional or dining use. Constructed of selected birch and finished in clear polish".
Height 71 cm width 45 cm depth 52 cm (28 x 17.5 x 20.5 in)
Bibliography:
1000 Chairs and Peter Fiell, Cologne 2000 p.232.
100 Masterpieces Vitra Design Museum
Design for Today 1934
A History of British Design 1839-1970 Fiona McCarthy pub.1972
Furnishing the Small Home published London and New York 1930’s by the Studio Ltd.
The Design History Journal 1992 Vol.5 No.3 - precis of Masters' thesis by Martha Deese, Metropolitan Museum New York
Bent Wood and Metal Furniture 1850-1946 University of Washington Press edited by Derek E. Ostergard
Exhibitions:
Museum of Modern Art, New York.
Vitra Design Museum
Phoenix Art Museum
Thirties British Art and Design before the War organized by the Arts Council of Great Britain, London 1979