Wire side chair, 1951
Charles Eames (American, 1907–1978); Ray Eames (American, 1912–1988); manufactured by Herman Miller Furniture Company, Zeeland, Michigan
Metal wire, painted black; H. 33 in. (83.8 cm), W. 18 in. (45.7 cm), D. 19 in. (48.3 cm)
Gift of David Allen Hanks, 1980 (1980.509)
Technical Glossary
Charles Eames (American, 1907–1978); Ray Eames (American, 1912–1988); manufactured by Herman Miller Furniture Company, Zeeland, Michigan
Metal wire, painted black; H. 33 in. (83.8 cm), W. 18 in. (45.7 cm), D. 19 in. (48.3 cm)
Gift of David Allen Hanks, 1980 (1980.509)
With the success of their molded plywood furniture, the Eameses continued to seek out new materials and forms to create affordable, functional, and modern furniture. This metal chair was designed to be lightweight, comfortably ergonomic, and durable. It is comprised of a curved, bucket-back wire seat, secured onto a metal support. This pedestal form is often referred to as the "Eiffel Tower" base due to its resemblance to the cast-iron Paris landmark. This innovative use of metal construction provided a flexible, multipurpose design suitable for inside and outside use.
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