Zig-Zag Chair

Gerrit rietveld, sedia zig-zag, 1938 ca

Zig-Zag Chair is a notable piece of furniture designed by the Dutch architect and furniture designer Gerrit Rietveld in 1934. The chair is renowned for its innovative design and is considered a masterpiece of modernist furniture design. It is part of Rietveld's exploration into minimizing the form and materials used in furniture construction, aligning with the principles of the De Stijl movement, which emphasized simplicity and abstraction.

Design and Construction

The Zig-Zag Chair consists of four flat wooden planes that are joined together in a Z-shape, a design that eliminates the need for traditional legs and back support. The chair is constructed from a single piece of wood, showcasing Rietveld's skill in creating functional art from minimal materials. The simplicity of the design, combined with its structural ingenuity, allows the chair to stand firmly without the conventional support systems used in furniture design.

The chair's design is a testament to Rietveld's innovative use of materials and his commitment to the De Stijl principles, which sought to reduce forms to their essentials. Despite its minimalist design, the Zig-Zag Chair is both functional and comfortable, demonstrating Rietveld's mastery in balancing form with function.

Impact and Legacy

The Zig-Zag Chair has had a significant impact on the world of furniture design and is considered a pioneering work in the development of modernist design. Its innovative construction and aesthetic have inspired countless designers and architects, making it a staple in design museums and collections around the world.

The chair not only exemplifies the ideals of the De Stijl movement but also represents a shift in the approach to furniture design, where form and function are seamlessly integrated. Rietveld's Zig-Zag Chair continues to be celebrated for its artistic and functional qualities, securing its place as an iconic piece of 20th-century design.

See Also

• Gerrit Rietveld
• De Stijl
• Modernist design
• Furniture design