Barcelona Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

The so called “Barcelona Chair” by German architect and designer Ludwig Mies van der Rohe is without question one of the true classics of 20th century furniture design.  And one of the most copied.

On the 80th anniversary of its first public appearance during the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929, materials scientist Prof. Friederike Deuerler and Art Historian Prof. Gerda Breuer have curated an exhibition for the Galerie im Kolkmannhaus at the University of Wuppertal.

“From prototype to cult object – The Barcelona Chair from Ludwig Mies van der Rohe” is one the hand a sober scientific examination of the chair, the design process and the production process employed on the “original”; and on the other an examination of the question what is “original” in terms of furniture design.
A topic very close to our hearts, as you know.

In addition to the showing prototypes, early examples – including possibly articles displayed in Barcelona – the exhibition also shows modern interpretations, including a stackable plastic version.

For all those in, near or planning being in or near Wuppertal the exhibition runs at the Galerie im Kolkmannhaus, Hofaue 51-55, 42103 Wuppertal until August 23. More information can be found on the website.

Prof. Friederike Deuerlern and Prof. Gerda Breuer in two examples of the Barcelona Chair by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe