
Episode 35, Friday 17 October 2008
Gordon takes us to the National Gallery of Victoria to show us part of their stunning collection of 19th century chairs.
The chairs Gordon has selected are all exquisite examples of the variety of designs that were being produced during this period, including the extraordinary attention to detail and the textured surface of the jewel encrusted Tadama chair and Carlo Bugatti’s Throne c. 1900 made from ebonized wood, inlaid metal motifs, ivory, silk cord, and parchment painted with bamboo designs. It’s clear to see that the designers drew inspiration from a variety of time lines from Gothic, Egyptian, Byzantine Moorish and Oriental to things that still look futuristic today. Next week Gordon and Adrian take a look at 20th century chairs.
For more information : http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au