Cane PJ-SI-29-A Easy Chair by Pierre Jeanneret, 1955

Here we see a decision to project the universal ideals of modernity onto Indian reality. However, this piece was inspired by North Indian culture as well the cosmic and spiritual Indian perception that changed the rationalist perception of Pierre Jeanneret in a substantial way. This item expresses a specific rawness. There is no need for precise execution or the desire to appear sophisticated. It is simple, self-evident, and direct. It is made out of basic elements, illustrating a new language: essential and cleared of everything irrelevant. The surfaces of the seats are done in cane. Contrasting the massive wooden parts, which frame it nicely, cane expresses a lightness with its transparency. The geometrical patterns of the canework create a charming shadowscape. We do the caning like it was done in Chandigarh. We use durable and thicker cane. All massive wood parts are authentic. They are done in Indian teak. Rich in texture, the wood is vivid and comes in cognac colour. The surface is treated with shellac and there are several layers of original shellac. It provides smooth irregular gloss different from that of the sterile lacquerware nowadays. Charming irregularities show that each piece is unique. Chandigarh items are famous for A-shaped legs, also known as compass legs. On the inner side, the edges are sharper, while the outer edges are rounded. The shape of the legs illustrates the weight they carry. Here it is obvious that Pierre Jeanneret, together with Jean Prouvé and Le Corbusier, had a structural, not decorative, expression. I think the piece blends well with many interior styles. It can support pure, modern aesthetics by giving them a warmer character with its natural materials and warm colours. As a chair, it is usable for dining and working, supporting the back nicely. P! Galerie’s selection is mainly focused on rare French mid-century modern design artefacts by Pierre Jeanneret, Jean Prouvé, Le Corbusier, and Charlotte Perriand. Artefacts from our carefully curated collection are handpicked, and all traces and important indicators of authenticity are evaluated professionally. We try to preserve as much of patina as possible during the process of restoration, as it defines these historic pieces. Each object comes with a certificate of authenticity, offering you the opportunity to own a valuable artefact originating from a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Not only do we cooperate with museums and offer auction houses our services and expert opinion, we also look forward to welcoming you as a private collector and connoisseur. Literature: Eric Touchaleaume and Gerald Moreau, ‘Le Corbusier Pierre Jeanneret: The Indian Adventure, Design-Art-Architecture’ (Paris: Gourcuff Gradenigo, 2011), 563. Edition Galerie Patrick Seguin, ‘Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret: Chandigarh, India’ (Paris: Galerie Patrick Seguin, 2014), 176.