Early LC1 armchairs by Le Corbusier Perriand for Cassina, c. 1968, set of 2

A rare pair of early vintage LC1 Basculant armchairs in pony hair-on cowhide and leather, designed by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand and produced by Cassina in Italy during the late 1960s. With polished chrome tubular frames, pivoting backrests and distinctive natural cowhide upholstery, these early numbered Cassina LC1 chairs carry remarkably close serial numbers 4608 and 4611, only three numbers apart. Designer: Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand. Maker: Cassina. Model: LC1 / Fauteuil à dossier basculant. Origin: Italy. Period: Circa 1968, estimated late 1960s. Style: Modernist / Bauhaus / mid-century modern / Italian design. Materials: Chrome-plated tubular steel,   pony hair-on cowhide, leather arm straps, metal springs. Dimensions: 60 W × 64 D × 64 H cm (23.6 W × 25.2 D × 25.2 H in) Seat height: 38 cm (15 in) Quantity: Set of 2. Marked: Yes, engraved Le Corbusier signature, LC/1 and serial numbers 4608 and 4611. The LC1 is exceptionally light in appearance, built around an exposed architectural framework of chromed tubular steel. Suspended hair-on hide forms the seat and pivoting backrest, while slim cognac leather straps create the armrests. The contrast between cool polished chrome and richly varied natural cowhide gives this pair a particularly tactile presence. Exposed springs, eyelets and connections remain integral to the visual language of the design, expressing the construction rather than concealing it. The closely related natural patterns, patina and exceptionally close production numbers make the two chairs especially compelling as a pair. Condition. Good vintage condition with signs of age and use consistent with its period. The pony hair-on cowhide remains well preserved overall, with natural variation, light wear, minor marks and small areas of age-related wear around some edges. The chrome-plated tubular frames remain bright and present well, with light scratches and small marks.