Harry Bertoia was part of the post war American sculptural movement. A wave of economic prosperity and industrial power resulted in significant scientific advances. Exposed to new industrial materials, Bertoia quickly became technically proficient with previously untried metal alloys, wires, and plastics.
After partnering with Knoll, Bertoia moved to East Greenville, Pennsylvania in 1950 and produced something extraordinary.
“If you look at those chairs, they are mainly made of air, like sculpture. Space passes right through them.”
The Bertoia Side Chair is among the most recognized achievements of mid century modern design.
Bertoia’s eponymous furniture collection was introduced by Knoll in 1952 and instantly proclaimed one of the greatest achievements of 20th century furniture design. Bertoia’s approach to the collection was in keeping with his sculptural interests.
Bertoia was born on March 10, 1915, in the small village of San Lorenzo, Friuli, Italy, about 50 miles north of Venice and 70 miles south of Austria.