Eero Saarinen
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a set of eight "Tulip" chairs, Knoll International, 1960s-70s.
Base in white lacquered cast aluminium, seats in moulded white plastic, later cushions covered in grey textile, maker's mark Knoll International. Seat height 45 cm, height 80 cm.
Later cushions, wear and marks.
More information
Designed in 1955-56.
Designer
Eero Saarinen was a Finnish architect and designer born in Kyrkslätt in Finland. Saarinen, considered one of the most prominent modernist architects, made a career in Europe and the USA. He studied sculpture at Le Grande Chaumiere in Paris and architecture at Yale University. In 1963, Saarinen designed President Jefferson's memorial in St. Louis, called the "Gateway arch". Furthermore, he designed furniture in plywood and plastic, including "Tulip", "Plywood Chair" and "Womb Chair" for Knoll Associates. Saarinen drew inspiration from nature and its sculptural and organic shapes.
His father was Eliel Saarinen, an architect, designer, and lecturer.