Eileen Gray (1878-1976), Pair of "Transat" Chairs

Eileen GRAY (1878-1976)
Pair of "Transat" armchairs

Model created around 1927-1929
Edition Écart International, circa 1980

Structure black lacquered wood, metal elements.
Seat and back upholstered in leather.

Dimensions: H 79 x L 106.5 x W 56 cm


Rare pair of "Transat" armchairs with black lacquered wooden frame with clean lines. The square-section base is reinforced by visible metal elements, highlighting the construction and providing a discreet contrast.

The seat, slightly inclined, features a rectangular upholstered cushion, extended by an articulated, sloping backrest, also upholstered in leather, structured by horizontal upholstery. The arm rests, in line with the frame, frame the seat and contribute to the overall balance of the model, whose low, elongated silhouette is reminiscent of resting chairs.

The whole is distinguished by its formal clarity and understated elegance, characteristic of the artist's vocabulary.

Designed in the late 1920s by Eileen GRAY, the "Transat" armchair is part of the artist's research carried out by the artist for the design of the villa E-1027, designed with Jean BADOVICI.

Inspired transatlantic liners, this model reflects a reflection on the body position, combining a rigorous structure with a sloping with a comfortable, sloping seat.

The treatment of the backrest, marked by horizontal upholstery, introduces a sensual dimension to an otherwise highly architectural composition.

The editions produced by Écart International from the 1970s onwards played a decisive role in the rediscovery of Eileen GRAY's work. Reedition of the 1980-1990 period, such as the present pair, are now sought-after for their quality of execution and their fidelity to the original model.

Bibliography:

Peter Adam, Eileen Gray: Architect/Designer, Harry N. Abrams, New York, 1987, model "Transat" reproduced on pp. 204-205

Jean-Paul Midant (dir.), Eileen Gray, Centre Pompidou, Paris, 2013, models comparable p. 154-159