In 1950, Hans and Florence Knoll set up a studio for Italian-born sculptor Harry Bertoia near East Greenville, Pennsylvania. The Knolls gave Bertoia the creative freedom to develop his artistic concepts without the constraints of a strict design agenda.
“His assignment was very open,” recalled Florence Knoll.
Bertoia worked with his own hands, trying variations, never satisfied. “When I get involved with something, there will be a grouping,” he reflected. “You will see them all around.” Through this artistic process, different chair functions emerged—for dining, for sitting or for reading—each finding a distinct natural form.
“Mostly made of air,” was Bertoia’s apt description of his work, and his exploration of bending metal rods into practical art resulted in a collection of formed wire chairs that have become icons of mid-century modern design. Bertoia’s Diamond, Bird, side chair, barstool, bench and the Asymmetric Chaise, which until recently had not been manufactured beyond the prototypical phase, are studies in space, form and function. Their airy, filigree appearance belies their strength and durability.
The Bertoia collection reflects the KnollStudio® commitment to timeless, enduring design, continuing the Knoll legacy of producing furniture to the exacting standards of the designer and affirming our unwavering belief in the power and utility of modern design.