Vitra Tabouret Solvay

Designed for the Solvay Chemical company in 1941-42, Jean Prouvé’s tabouret prioritizes wood, as metals were scarce during the War. Despite these limitations, the streamlined design is infused with Prouvé’s timeless structural principles: The circular seat is supported by an architectonic array of fin-like legs, joined by black, powder-coated steel hardware. Available in natural oak, dark smoked oak, or American walnut, the handsomely sturdy design can be used as a low stool or cocktail table between two lounge chairs. Made in Germany by Vitra, a manufacturer of iconic modern furnishings that’s widely represented in the Museum’s collection.

Jean Prouvé was trained as a metal artisan before expanding his work to include the full panoply of design—from letter openers to lighting to prefabricated houses. His designs encompass nearly everything that lends itself to industrial fabrication. He opened his first workshop in 1924 and, by 1947, had his own factory. Prouvé is also known for serving as the chairman of the committee that selected Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers’ design for the Centre Pompidou in 1971. Ten examples of Prouvé’s work are included in MoMA’s collection.