Jordi Casablancas

JORDI CASABLANCAS (Barcelona, 1940-2001), for Muebles Casablancas
Set of 4 chairs, 1967.
Oak wood and bulrush.
Measurements: 78 cm (height); 43 cm (seat height); 44 cm (seat depth).

These chairs in the picture are an excellent example of mid-20th century Spanish design.

Set of four oak chairs with bulrush seat, designed by Jordi Casablancas Muntañola for Muebles Casablancas in 1967.

Structure made of solid oak, with straight lines and sober proportions, typical of the Mediterranean rationalism of the time. Seat and back braided in bulrush, which gives texture and warmth to the whole, as well as a comfortable flexibility when sitting.

The style is a synthesis between the Catalan rural tradition and the modern aesthetics of the 1960s, very much in tune with the philosophy of post-war Mediterranean design.

Jordi Casablancas Muntañola was part of the generation that sought to modernize Spanish furniture by incorporating principles of Scandinavian design and the modern movement, but without losing the link with natural materials and artisanal techniques. These chairs represent that quest very well: modernity with local roots.

In addition to furniture, Casablancas also designed some interiors and participated in the dissemination and teaching of design as a teacher at various universities and as a member of the FAD (Promotion of Decorative Arts). Some of his most outstanding designs are the S 6 chair (1966), the S 5 armchair (1979) or the changing table (1970). He was also an economist.