Vertèbre by Pierre Vandel

“Vertèbre” Armchair by Pierre Vandel, Pierre Vandel-Paris, France.

Designed in 1972 and produced in a limited edition of 600 examples, the “Vertèbre” armchair is one of Pierre Vandel’s most distinctive creations, reflecting the experimental spirit of French design during the early 1970s.

The sculptural structure is composed of a succession of individually upholstered elements, arranged along the seat and backrest in a configuration evocative of a spinal column, from which the model takes its name. The original foam padding has been preserved and newly upholstered in brown Alcantara, carefully selected to faithfully reproduce the appearance and texture of the original nubuck and suede. Each element is secured to a brushed aluminium framework, creating a striking dialogue between the softness of the upholstery and the precise, industrial character of the metal.

The dramatically articulated backrest rises above a generously proportioned seat, while the curved brushed aluminium base reinforces the chair’s architectural presence. Combining an unconventional construction with a strong sculptural identity, the “Vertèbre” perfectly illustrates Vandel’s exploration of form, comfort and modern materials during this period.