Clouded Blue

The design was influenced by furniture from the 18th century and includes a revival of such methods as Pietra-Dura (hard stone inlays), fused with modern design techniques. The chair is finished with 60 year old English walnut and traditional hand woven silks.

In its fundamental form the chair consists of a 4 metre long, 20mm thick steel bar bent into a spiral. The weight of the chair back alone is equivalent to two paving slabs and the structure can easily support a man or woman. Nevertheless, the true beauty of the piece lies not in the robust internal framework but in the delicate finish of walnut, granite, leather and silk. These natural materials combine and enrich its unique technological features.

“Clouded Blue” has provoked much admiration and some criticism. It is intentionally controversial and whilst its ergonomic and aesthetic values might be debatable, its stunning visual impact cannot be denied. But, is it furniture, or is it art?