PJ-SI-29-A Easy Chairs by Pierre Jeanneret, Chandigarh, 1956, Set of 2

Here we see a decision to project the universal ideals of modernity onto Indian reality. However, these pieces were 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. These items express a specific rawness. There is no need for precise execution or the desire to appear sophisticated. They are simple, self-evident, and direct. They are 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 chocolate 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. The items are engraved on the back with lettering, which makes them more valuable. Chandigarh items are famous for A-shaped legs. Many desks, chairs, armchairs, and sideboards have these legs, so the pieces remind us of sturdy structural constructions, such as bridge pillars that carry their weight, or some of Le Corbusier’s buildings. The A-shaped legs have sharper corners and are strict and sturdy in their geometry. Their angle and position show that Pierre Jeanneret, together with Jean Prouvé and Le Corbusier, had a structural, not decorative, expression. I think these pieces blend well with many interior styles. They can support pure, modern aesthetics by giving them a warmer character with their natural materials and warm colours. As chairs, they are 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.