Bertoia

Harry Bertoia for Knoll

Harry Bertoia was born in Italy in 1915. He studied at the Cranbrook Academy, where he ran a metal workshop and taught jewelry and metalwork, before moving to California to work with Charles Eames. Florence and Hans Knoll later invited him to set up a metal shop at Knoll's production facility, giving him time and materials to experiment with no specific commission.

In 1952 the result was the Bertoia wire collection: the Side Chair, Diamond Lounge Chair, Bird Chair, Bench, and Barstool. The pieces are built from welded steel wire, rigid in structure but open in form, allowing light and space to read through the frame. Bertoia described the chairs as being made primarily of air. The collection has been in continuous production since 1952. The Asymmetric Chaise was added in 2005 from Bertoia's original experiments.

Modern Planet by Gabriel Ross is an authorized Knoll retailer. Shop the Bertoia collection at Modern Planet with nationwide delivery.

Are Bertoia chairs still made by Knoll?

Yes. The Bertoia wire collection has been in continuous production since 1952. The Side Chair, Diamond Chair, Bird Chair, Bench, and Barstool are manufactured to the original welded wire rod construction.