René Herbst

RENÉ HERBST (Paris, 1891–1982)
Set of six “Sandow” chairs, 1980.
Metal and rope frame.
Measurements: 80 x 42 x 42 cm (x6).
Originally designed by Herbst in the late 1920s, the Sandow chairs are one of the icons of early French modernism and an early example of how industrial materials could radically transform furniture. Their lightweight, minimalist tubular frame is combined with a network of elastic tensioners that replaces the traditional upholstered seat, providing flexibility, comfort, and an image of extraordinary modernity. Unveiled at the 1929 Paris Salon d’Automne, the Sandow chairs embodied the ideal of a new aesthetic based on functionality, industrial production, and the absence of ornamentation. Decades later, the model was revived and produced again—among other editions—during the 1980s, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this piece. This design is part of the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.
René Herbst was one of the great pioneers of modern French design. An architect, designer, and interior decorator, he stood out for his innovative use of steel, glass, and other industrial materials, eventually becoming known as “the man of steel.” In 1929, he co-founded the Union des Artistes Modernes (UAM) alongside figures such as Robert Mallet-Stevens, and devoted much of his career to promoting functional, modern, and accessible design.