Leg splint, 1942
Charles Eames (American, 1907–1978); Ray Eames (American, 1912–1988); manufactured by Evans Products, Molded Plywood Division
Molded plywood; H. 42 1/4 in. (107.3 cm), W. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm), D. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm)
Gift of Fifty/50, 1984 (1984.246)
Charles Eames (American, 1907–1978); Ray Eames (American, 1912–1988); manufactured by Evans Products, Molded Plywood Division
Molded plywood; H. 42 1/4 in. (107.3 cm), W. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm), D. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm)
Gift of Fifty/50, 1984 (1984.246)
During World War II, the U.S. Navy called upon Charles and Ray Eames to create a lightweight, inexpensive leg splint. The resulting design is a highly sculptural yet functional device that could be mass-produced and, being modular, conveniently and inexpensively transported. Access to military technology and manufacturing facilities allowed the Eameses to perfect their technique for molding plywood, which they had been working on for several years. In its three-dimensional, biomorphic form, the leg splint suggests the Eames' subsequent, highly influential plywood furniture designs.
