Eero Saarinen, Conference chair for Knoll

EERO SAARINEN (Finland, 1910 - United States, 1961) for KNOLL.
Saarinen Conference" chair, 1946.
Oak plywood and blue fabric upholstery.
In good condition. Fully reupholstered.
Measurements: 82 x 57 x 55 cm; 48.5 cm (seat height).

The Conference chair by Eero Saarinen for Knoll stands out for its soft lines inspired by the modern movement. The openwork seat and backrest are integrated into a single piece with curved contours, while the tubular legs flare out in elegant contrast. These iconic Saarinen executive chairs remain one of the author's most recognizable and admired designs, widely used to this day. The opening of the backrest provides a slight flexibility when sitting, reinforcing its comfort. As in many of Saarinen's creations, its form has a sculptural quality that makes it attractive and harmonious from any angle.

Saarinen initially studied sculpture at the Académie de la Grand Chaumière in Paris, and later architecture at Yale University. He then furthered his studies in Europe on a scholarship, and upon his return took up a teaching position at Cranbrook Academy, one of the most important architecture and industrial design schools in the United States. In 1937 he began designing furniture in collaboration with Charles Eames, winning the 1940 prize in the "Organic Design in Home Furnishings" competition organized by the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Later, as an independent designer, Saarinen created furniture designs for Knoll International. Today his creations are present in the most important collections around the world, including the MoMA in New York.