Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Molteni Set of Six 'Monk' Dining Chairs in Leather

Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Molteni, set of six 'Monk' dining chairs, leather, walnut, Italy, circa 1970

Set of six 'Monk' chairs by Italian designers Afra & Tobia Scarpa. The main distinguishing feature between the classic Monk chairs and these is the addition of cylindrical-shaped beams attached to the top and bottom of the legs. The characteristic 'flat' shape of the legs found in Monk chairs is also present in this version. This constructive feature gives the chair the appearance of being light-weight, whilst in fact they are very solid and heavy. Another repeating detail is the use of nails on the top of each leg, which are executed in a black dark color. The deep cognac leather shows beautiful patina and forms a striking combination with the walnut wood. All in all, a very interesting and high-quality chair. Simplified and solid design by Italian award winning designers couple Afra & Tobia Scarpa.

Afra (1937-2011) & Tobia (1935-) Scarpa are a duo of Italian architects and designers mostly known for their postmodern style. Afra Bianchin was born in 1937 in Montebelluna while Tobia Scarpa, son of the architect Carlo Scarpa, was born in 1935 in Venice. The couple met when they were both studying at the Venice Institute of Architecture and married afterwards. From 1957 until 1961, Tobia worked as a glass designer at the Murano glassworks of Venini. However, in 1960, the duo started to collaborate, and they set up one of the most successful and well-known professional studios. Together, they worked for companies such as Flos Gavina, B&B Italia, and Knoll. The couple won numerous amounts of awards like the Compasso d’Oro and the International Forum Design. Throughout their career, the duo carried out commissions for well-known companies, including Benetton. Overall, their designs are known for their modernist aesthetic, prioritizing elegance and comfort. However, at the same time, their pieces are admired for the ease with which they lean towards classical designs. Moreover, the creations show their deep understanding for materials. Today, many of their works can be found in major museums such as Museum of Mod­ern Art of New York, Musée du Lou­vre, National Museum of Design New York and many more.

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