Item Description
Rare early T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings for Saridis of Athens, ‘Klini’ chaise lounge model nr. 11, in Greek walnut with leather thong, designed 1961. An ancient Greek inspired daybed by the British designer T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings. This chaise lounge was part of the 1961 collection he designed for Saridis of Athens, inspired by the drawings he saw on ancient Greek vases. The chaise lounge features a graceful curving back and sable curved legs. The woven seat is made of leather straps which are tight around the walnut frame. The design beholds Robsjohn-Gibbings’ philosophy of furniture design that is independent of time. The stone red wool cushion was added by the owner to protect this precious piece. This is the only Klini chaise on the market labeled with the early steel manufacturer’s plaque underneath and a documented history. Provenance: the Royal Dutch Shell building designed by architect Charles Pfister. Excellent all original condition! Excerpt from pg 115 of “Furniture of Classical Greece” By T.H. Robsjohn- Gibbings and Carlton W. Pullin on the Klini chaise: “Walnut couch with leather thongs seat, a re-creation of the Greek couch…The graceful, practical form of the back rest recalls the similar beauty and grace of the klismos…For dining and banquets, embroidered mattresses and luxurious cushions were used on the couch. For sleeping, bedclothes of linen or wool, often perfumed, were added.”.
