Description

This is a prototype lounge chair frame, designed by John Portman for Gratz Industries in the 1980s. This piece came directly from the Gratz private collection and is one-of-a-kind. Its sculptural construction is formed from highly polished stainless steel, and it is ready for a new sling seat. There are thin armrests that are presently in black leather, but these can be newly upholstered according to the specifications of the chosen seat material. The frame measures 28 inches wide, 28.75 inches deep, and 24.5 inches tall.

John C. Portman was an Atlanta-based American architect and developer, renowned for his buildings designed around atria. While he is perhaps best known for his large-scale hotel and office developments that anchor several major city centers, he also dabbled in creating uncommon pieces of furniture.

Gratz Industries is an important American metal fabricator, having discreetly worked in concert with some of the best-known industrial designers and artists in the USA. Since 1929, Gratz has been an industry leader in the conception and realization of architectural metal, furniture, sculpture, and objects. This stellar frame is in excellent condition, and is truly an important piece of history.