No. 14 chair

Michael Thonet 14

No. 14 chair, also known as the bistro chair, is a classic piece of furniture that has become an icon of design and functionality. Designed in 1859 by Michael Thonet, a German-Austrian cabinet maker, the No. 14 chair revolutionized furniture manufacturing and design, becoming one of the most successful commercial products in the world. Its simple yet elegant design, affordability, and durability have made it a staple in cafes, bistros, and households worldwide.

History

The No. 14 chair was the culmination of years of experimentation by Michael Thonet in bending wood. Thonet developed a process of steam bending wood under pressure to create curved shapes and structures, which allowed for the mass production of the chair. The chair's design was innovative for its time, featuring a minimal number of components: six pieces of bentwood, ten screws, and two nuts. This simplicity in design and assembly significantly reduced production costs and time, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Design and Features

The design of the No. 14 chair is characterized by its elegance and simplicity. Its most distinctive feature is the curved backrest, which is made from a single piece of bentwood that also forms part of the rear legs. This not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the chair but also provides flexibility, enhancing the chair's comfort. The seat is traditionally made of woven cane or plywood, contributing to the chair's lightweight and airy appearance. The chair's design allows it to be easily disassembled, making it economical to produce, transport, and store.

Impact and Legacy

The No. 14 chair has had a profound impact on furniture design and is considered a masterpiece of industrial design. It was one of the first pieces of furniture to be mass-produced, making it a precursor to modern furniture manufacturing techniques. Its success is reflected in the fact that it has been in continuous production since its inception, with over 80 million units sold by the 1930s and countless more since then.

The chair's design has been celebrated for its blend of form and function, and it has won numerous awards. It is part of the collections of many prestigious museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York. The No. 14 chair is not only a piece of furniture but also a symbol of innovation and the democratization of design.

In Popular Culture

The No. 14 chair has transcended its functional role to become an icon in popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, paintings, and photographs, often used to evoke a certain aesthetic or historical period. Its enduring design continues to inspire designers and artists around the world.

See Also

• Michael Thonet
• Bentwood
• Industrial Design
• Furniture Design