Gio Ponti 969 chairs set by Montina Italy 1970s

Gio Ponti

Italy, 1891 – 1971
Architect, designer

This rare and exceptional set of 25 Gio Ponti Model 969 chairs, crafted from beech wood in a walnut stained finish, represents a unique chapter in the history of Italian design. Originally inspired by the spiral chair Ponti introduced at the VI Triennale di Milano in 1936, the Model 969 was reimagined by the designer himself in 1969. This reinterpretation captures the essence of Ponti’s style, blending classic aspirations with a modern sensibility.

The chairs feature Ponti’s characteristic spiral backrest, transforming a decorative flourish into a defining structural element. The lower crosspieces create an engaging interplay of symmetry and asymmetry, adding a sense of dynamic tension to the design. The flared, triangular prism legs taper elegantly both upward and downward, demonstrating Ponti’s mastery of form and proportion. Each chair is imbued with the elegance and uniqueness that marks Ponti’s work.

Crafted from walnut-stained beech, the chairs include a curved plywood backrest and a padded seat upholstered in a soft linen-like fabric. This was newly done which makes the chairs look excellent again. A subtle distinction exists within the set: 13 of the chairs have a slightly creamier hue compared to the other 12, adding a layer of nuanced variation to their visual appeal. The chairs are available for individual sale, as they are priced accordingly.

Literature: Gio Ponti, L’arte si innamora dell’industria, edited by Ugo La Pietra, page 137.

Produced by Montina International in Italy around 1970, these 25 chairs form a rare and valuable collection, embodying the innovative spirit and refined craftsmanship of Gio Ponti’s mid-20th-century designs. Very hard to find such a large set of chairs like these. For large dining tables and cosy dining.

As with all our upholstered pieces, these can be custom reupholstered to suit your preferences. Consult with our experienced upholstery department for a personalized quote on customizing the item of your choice. We can work with fabric you provide or order specific materials to meet your needs. Throughout the reupholstery process, we prioritize preserving the originality of the piece to ensure it retains its value and is ready for many more years of use.