Borek Sipek, for Driade.

BOŘEK ŠÍPEK (Prague, 1949-2016) for Driade.
Set of six "Jansky" chairs. Italy, ca. 1980s-90s.
Light varnished wood and black lacquered metal.
Condition: 7/10. Some marks of use.
Measurements: 82 × 62 × 42,5 cm.

Pair of chairs model "Jansky", designed by Bořek Šípek for Driade. The design combines a classically inspired structure with a fully postmodern reading, where the curved backrest, the turned finials and the small metal details provide a theatrical and sophisticated character.

The sobriety of the black lacquer contrasts with the ornamental richness of its forms. The backrest, wide and slightly arched, is finished at both ends with spherical elements that introduce a playful note, while the stylized legs and brass accents lighten the whole.

Bořek Šípek trained in interior design in Prague and completed architectural studies in Hamburg. In 1983 he set up his workshop in Amsterdam and, during the 1980s, began a decisive collaboration with Driade, a firm for which he designed highly original furniture and objects, becoming one of its main collaborators alongside Philippe Starck, Oscar Tusquets and Antonia Astori.

His work is characterized by formal freedom, the combination of historical references and postmodern sensibility, as well as a strong link with craftsmanship, especially bohemian glass. He also collaborated with firms such as Alessi, Sawaya & Moroni, Wittmann and Vitra, and between 1990 and 2003 was the architect of Prague Castle by appointment of Václav Havel.