Gio Ponti Leggera Chair For CassinaAn icon of chair design and of Cassina’s masterful artisan craftsmanship. A tasteful and versatile piece reminiscent of the sleek lines of the traditional Chiavari chair, Leggera is the wood chair par excellence as well as one of the flagship pieces in the partnership between Gio Ponti, Cesare Cassina and the company’s joinery experts.The experience and skills of the Cassina fine joinery lived up to the challenge of progressively paring down the structure which later give rise to the more slender and equally unmistakable 699 Superleggera chair.STRUCTUREStructure in solid ash or canaletto walnut.BACKREST PADDINGContoured thermoformed polyurethane.UPHOLSTERYFabric or leather.An icon of design, it is now available in the classic version as well as with armrests. Its clean, sophisticated yet versatile lines make it an excellent solution to a wide range of decor needs. The quintessential wood chair, Leggera marks one of the key points of the design and production relationship which began in the 1950s between Gio Ponti, Cesare Cassina, and the company’s artisans. The experience, expertise and skills of the Cassina joinery masters were put to the test in addressing the challenge of progressively lightening the chair frame – to craft the unique slimline Superleggera chair – concentrating on its essential lines while maintaining its strength and stability. The many combinations and color contrasts between the ash wood frame, the seat covering and the padded backrest, made of a separate cushion with removable upholstery, keep the Leggera contemporary and a perfect fit in any setting.Important information regarding images of products:Please note that some of the images show other colors and variations of the model, these images are only to present interior design proposals. The item that is selling is on the first image.Important information regarding color(s) of products:Actual colors may vary. This is due to the fact that every computer monitor, laptop, tablet and phone screen has a different capability to display colors and that everyone sees these colors differently. We try to edit our photos to show all of our products as life-like as possible, but please understand the actual color may vary slightly from your monitorAbout the Designer:An architect, a designer and an artist, Gio Ponti (Milano 1891-1979) graduated in Milan in 1921 and initially entered into partnership with Emilio Lancia and Mino Fiocchi from 1927 to 1933. In 1927 he founded Il Labirinto with Lancia, Buzzi, Marelli, Venini and Chiesa in order to produce high-quality furniture and objects. From 1923 to 1930 he has been Richard Ginori’s artistic director. Thanks to the creation of Domus magazine in 1928 (which he presided over almost constantly until his death), Ponti made an intensive contribution to the renewal of the Italian production in the sector, giving it new impetus. Ponti has been a strong supporter of the Monza Biennale, then the Milan Triennale, of the Compasso d’Oro awards and of ADI (Association of Industrial Design). As an architect, he created the symbol of modern Milan, the Pirelli skyscraper, designed with Fornaroli, Rosselli and Nervi in 1956. In 1951, he realised the second Palazzo Montecatini (his first office building dates back to 1938-39). In 1957 he designed the super-celebrated Superleggera chair for Cassina, the crowning achievement of a long and fruitful working association. To his planning activities, he added educational activities, teaching at the Faculty of Architecture in Milan from 1936 to 1961.About Manufacture:Established in 1927 by Cesare and Umberto Cassina in Meda, Italy, Cassina launched industrial design in Italy in the 1950s, based on a totally innovative approach that marked the transition from artisan production to mass production. With a mindset focused on research and innovation, Cassina combines technology and long-standing artisan craftsmanship. Memory, research, innovation. Cassina blends traditional skills and superior productivity, meticulous attention to detail and passion, uniqueness and experimentation, wellbeing and sustainability. Today, the company continues to address new lifestyles with the creation of complete, harmonious interior decor solutions that embody the best contemporary design for all areas of the home.