Pierre Guariche, for Les Huchers-Minvielle

PIERRE GUARICHE (Paris, 1926 – Bandol, France, 1995) for Les Huchers-Minvielle.
“Capitole” armchair and ottoman set, model CA21, ca. 1960.
Teak wood and fabric upholstery.
Reupholstered. Exhibits slight wear consistent with age and use on the wood.
Measurements: 70 x 71 x 71 cm (armchair); 40 x 72 x 70 cm (ottoman).

The “Capitole” set is an interesting example of modern French design from the 1960s, characterized by formal simplicity and the pursuit of functional and modular solutions. Designed by Pierre Guariche for Les Huchers-Minvielle, it stands out for its original geometric structure and the combination of upholstered volumes with wooden elements that have a distinct architectural presence.

Both pieces feature bases formed by X-shaped intersecting wooden panels, upon which rest bodies with straight lines and balanced proportions. The armchair, which has no armrests, incorporates a slightly sloped backrest, while the ottoman visually extends the seat. The turquoise blue upholstery, with tufted details, creates an attractive hallmark of contrast with the warmth of the wood. The design was part of a coordinated furniture collection that included low tables with a similar structure, reflecting the designer’s interest in the versatility of the domestic space.

Pierre Guariche was a leading figure in 20th-century French design. Trained at the École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, he began his career working alongside Marcel Gascoin and later collaborated with firms such as Steiner, Airborne, Disderot, and Les Huchers-Minvielle. His work, characterized by structural clarity and functionality, is represented in institutions such as the Centre Pompidou in Paris.