Willy Guhl

WILLY GUHL (Switzerland, 1915-2004) for Eternit.
Planter "Diabolo", ca. 1950.
Cement.
Measurements: 92 x 56 x 56 cm.

WILLY GUHL (Switzerland, 1915-2004) for Eternit.
Planter "Diabolo", 1950s.
Cement.
Measurements: 92 x 56 x 56 cm.

Cement was the material most used by Guhl, who created a wide range of disruptive and original avant-garde objects, close to the space-age aesthetic, using cellulose-infused cement fiber. The planter in question has the stylized shape of the diabolo juggling game, with two cones joined by a cylindrical shaft. It has an attractive ivory-colored patina.

Willy Guhl's creations are easily identifiable as being made of asbestos cement. Among his most famous works are the Eternit seat (1954) and the Boule seat (circa 1960). Influenced by his carpenter father, Guhl trained as a cabinetmaker. He then studied at the Zurich School of Applied Arts and opened his workshop in 1939. Driven by the desire to pass on his knowledge, he began teaching at the School of Applied Arts in 1941 and became director in 1951. At the same time, he began working with Eternit AG, for which he designed numerous pieces of furniture. He also worked for other companies and designed various ranges of furniture for public commissions. Willy Guhl made a major contribution to the institution's housing aid program to produce furniture for the reconstruction of Europe.