dsdn 171 | project 4 - hand-in

Iconic Lounge Chair (670) and Ottoman(671)

I have longed for an authentic Eames Lounge (670) and Ottoman (671) ever since my first flatting experience straight out of high school. My best friend’s parents had been crazy enough to loan us their own rather well-worn but nonetheless original pair. The chair for sale in this Trademe auction is a replica of the one I fell in love with all those years ago.

Paddington, Sydney - first flat complete with Eames Lounge & Ottoman

At the time I was unaware it is considered an icon of mid (twentieth) century design. I just appreciated its Jetsons-like curved plywood back as well as the rich leather upholstery. 

Since then I have found myself increasingly drawn to mid-century furniture. As someone who grew up in the seventies, I am comforted by the familiarity of these objects and to me they speak of a more optimistic bygone era when anything seemed possible. (Fitoussi, 2006, pp 4-5). Because Ray and Charles Eames exemplified the best of mid twentieth century design, this celebrated American design team have been responsible for some of my most ardent design crushes. 

Even though I am a stickler for authenticity, I found myself half-tempted to bid on this item. The enthusiastic seller, whilst open about its being a knock-off, claims to have overseen its manufacture (in China) down to the finest detail. There is a clear awareness of the features that typify its design: the dimensions, the type and colour of the wood, the quality of the leather (even assuring the buyer the number of pleats has been taken into account!) As fakes go - this one doesn't seem too bad.

But as I read on, the seller’s reference to James Bond reminds me he is selling the status of owning this chair more than the object itself. I realise this is the primary objective of replicas such as these ...and that I need to take a reality check.

I don’t want people who visit our house to think I am trying to lead a rock and roll lifestyle. I want this chair because it evokes strong memories.  And because I have come to appreciate the revolutionary nature of its design. And because, like most collectors, what I really want to acquire is a little piece of history. 

So I search for a Herman Miller original and find one here.
...Price: $6450. Sigh… maybe for now I will have to get by with my Eames coaster collection. 

References:

Fitoussi, B. (2006). An American Myth. Eames: furniture 1941-1978 (p. 4). New York, NY: Assouline.

Research/additional images:

Fixed price offer received at close of Auction - $400 off the (re-listed) buy now price

 There's a great blog here that helps the amateur identify the differences between authentic and knock-off Eames Lounges.