646 Leggera
An icon of design and what has
been dubbed MedaMade crafts mastery, the Leggera -- its lines clean-cut
refined, and versatile -- adapts effortlessly to a variety of requirements and
settings. A wood chair, par excellence, the Leggera marks one of the key points
of the relationship, both in terms of design and production, which started in
the 1950s between Gio Ponti, Cesare Cassina, and the Cassina Company’s
artisans. The experience and the crafts capabilities of Cassina’s
carpenters were put to the test in addressing the challenge of lightening the
chair frame -- the ultimate outcome being the inimitable slimline Superleggera
chair -- concentrating on its essential lines while respecting its resistance
and stability. The many combinations and contrasts in colour between the
ashwood frame and the seat-cover keep the Leggera constantly up-to-date, as
well as making it a perfect partner for any setting.
About Designer | |
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Gio Ponti |
An
architect, a designer and an artist, Gio Ponti (Milano 1891-1979) graduated in
Milan in 1921 and initially entered into partnership with Emilio Lancia and
Mino Fiocchi from 1927 to 1933. In 1927 he founded Il Labirinto with Lancia,
Buzzi, Marelli, Venini and Chiesa in order to produce high-quality furniture
and objects. From 1923 to 1930 he has been Richard Ginori’s artistic director.
Thanks to the creation of Domus magazine in 1928 (which he presided over almost
constantly until his death), Ponti made an intensive contribution to the
renewal of the Italian production in the sector, giving it new impetus. Ponti
has been a strong supporter of the Monza Biennale, then the Milan Triennale, of
the Compasso d’Oro awards and of ADI (Association of Industrial Design). As an
architect, he created the symbol of modern Milan, the Pirelli skyscraper,
designed with Fornaroli, Rosselli and Nervi in 1956. In 1951, he realised the
second Palazzo Montecatini (his first office building dates back to 1938-39).
In 1957 he designed the super-celebrated Superleggera chair for Cassina, the
crowning achievement of a long and fruitful working association. To his
planning activities, he added educational activities, teaching at the Faculty
of Architecture in Milan from 1936 to 1961. |