Pierre Paulin AP-14 "Anneau" Butterfly Chair by AP Polak, 1950's

This stunning AP-14 "Anneau" chair is designed by Pierre Paulin. It is manufactured by AP Polak in the 50's. The dual metal tubular steel frames, connected with clips, suspend the white canvas sling. A very rare and desirable piece. The frame and the canvas show signs of age in the form of inconsistencies to the finish. Pierre Paulin (1927-2009) was a French furniture designer, influenced by the Scandinavian aesthetic, as well as by American prefabrication design. Important is his background in sculpting and stone carving which is the reason why his designs are often opulent and expressive. With the signature organic curves that features in many of his pieces. In 1954 he started a collaboration with Thonet. In 1958, Artifort's head of design Kho Liang Le recruited Pierre Paulin – his designs are still produced by Artifort today. Paulin said of his time at the company: “It represented the first full expression of my abilities. I considered the manufacture of chairs to be rather primitive and I was trying to think up new processes.” With his high profile, he went on to redecorate the rooms of the Elysée's private apartments for Pompidou and furnish the office of François Mitterrand. In November 2009, he was posthumously awarded the distinction of 'Royal Designer for Industry'.

Ref. : YPE686EE