Charlotte Perriand model 21 armchair Steph Simon France 1950

Rare armchair designed by Charlotte Perriand and manufactured by Steph Simon in France in 1950. This armchair model no. 21 is also known as Chamrousse. Perriand’s inspiration for this iconic chair came from her idyllic experiences on the French countryside and her encounters with rustic peasant furniture. The design beautifully captures the simplicity and the rustic charm of rural life. Throughout time, this chair was produced and sold by various publishers, with the renowned Steph Simon Gallery among them. Made from solid oak, this chair has four cylindrical supports connected by tapered struts. Both the back and seat are intricately braided with straw.This armchair has seen minimal use since it was located in a holiday home and therefore preserved its stunning condition with gentle patina where its age is clearly visible.

Literature; Charlotte Perriand Un art d’habiter Jaques Barsac 2005, page 137, 138, 280 and 305.
Charlotte Perriand an art of living Mary McLeod 2003, page 216, 217

Charlotte Perriand (1903-1999) was a pioneering French architect and designer who left an indelible mark on the world of modern design. Born in Paris, her innovative and boundary-pushing work has made her a celebrated figure in the fields of architecture and furniture design. Perriand’s career took off in the 1920s when she collaborated with Le Corbusier and Pierre Jeanneret on groundbreaking furniture designs that embraced functionalism and simplicity. Her famous “Chaise Longue Basculante” and “Grand Confort” chairs became iconic symbols of modernist design.

Throughout her career, Charlotte Perriand continued to challenge conventions and explore new materials and forms. Her work often drew inspiration from nature and sought to bring a sense of harmony and comfort to modern living spaces. One of her notable achievements was her work in designing prefabricated housing units, reflecting her commitment to making functional design accessible to a wider audience. Charlotte Perriand’s legacy endures as her designs continue to be celebrated and admired worldwide. Her innovative spirit and commitment to functional, beautiful design have left an indelible mark on the world of architecture and furniture, making her a true icon of modern design.