Cassina • ZIG-ZAG
Chair
Slats in ash wood. Finishing half-matt, transparent lacquer. Designed by Gerrit Thomas Rietveld. Cassina edition.
The entire Cassina collection can be ordered in our physical stores.
REF. 91899
W.37 x H.74 x D.43cm
Seat H.43cm
In Stock
Designed by Gerrit Rietveld, this chair provided an early example of a cantilevered seat, and is composed of four wood boards articulated end-to-end to form an extremely eye-catching example of an unstable structure.
Eschewing the traditional legs-seat-back sequence, Rietveld created a ribbon of wood forming a Z-shape. The crafts mastery of Cassina’s carpenters is seen in the execution of the dove-tail joints, which add to the beauty of the piece.
Gerrit Thomas Rietveld (1888–1964) was a seminal Dutch furniture designer and architect, renowned for his influential role in the De Stijl movement. Born in Utrecht, he began his career apprenticing as a cabinetmaker in his father’s workshop, gaining a deep understanding of craftsmanship. He furthered his education in architecture, which would profoundly shape his design philosophy.
In 1918, Rietveld designed the Red and Blue Chair, a piece that epitomizes the De Stijl principles of geometric abstraction, primary colors, and a minimalist aesthetic. This chair became a symbol of the movement, highlighting Rietveld’s innovative approach to both form and function. His ability to integrate art and utility marked a significant departure from traditional design paradigms.
Rietveld’s legacy endures in the fields of design and architecture. His work has had a lasting impact, influencing subsequent generations of designers and architects. The principles he championed—simplicity, abstraction, and the harmonious integration of form and function—remain central to modern design thinking.
Established in 1927 by Cesare and Umberto Cassina in Meda, near Milan, Cassina launched industrial design in Italy in the 1950s, based on a totally innovative approach that marked the transition from artisan production to mass production. Throughout its history, Cassina has been a melting pot of design luminaries. In the 1950s, it forged an iconic partnership with architects like Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand, creating legendary pieces such as the LC1 Sling Chair and LC2 Grand Confort sofa. These collaborations revolutionized furniture design, emphasizing form and function in equal measure.
One of Cassina's remarkable aspects is its ability to transcend eras. The brand's reissues of iconic designs retain their original essence while adapting to modern sensibilities, appealing to new generations of design enthusiasts. This blend of heritage and contemporary relevance is exemplified in pieces like the LC4 Chaise Longue, a timeless icon of comfort and style. Cassina's collaborations extend beyond mid-century architects. It has partnered with contemporary designers like Philippe Starck, Patricia Urquiola, and Jaime Hayon, infusing fresh perspectives into its collections. These collaborations merge diverse design philosophies, resulting in eclectic yet harmonious pieces that resonate with a broad audience.
In the present design landscape, Cassina stands as a bastion of innovation and heritage, continuously pushing boundaries while honoring its rich legacy. Its commitment to craftsmanship, combined with a forward-thinking approach, ensures its relevance and enduring influence in the ever-evolving world of design.
