Armchair model “Gala”
Manufactured by Vittorio Bonacina and Co
Italy, 1951
Rattan

Measurements
86 x 102 x 100h cm
34 x 40 x 39,5h in

Literature
1950/1980 Repertorio, Gramigna, pg. 64 illustrates variation of this form Il Mobile Italiano Degli Anni '40 e '50, de Guttry and Maino, pg. 77 illustrates variation of this form.

Provenance
Private collection, Torino

Biography
Franco Albini was an Italian Neo-Rationalist architect and designer. He earned his degree in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano and began his professional career working for Gio Ponti. In 1930, he opened his own practice.
Albini was known for using raw, inexpensive materials in his creations, leveraging skilled Italian craftsmanship to achieve elegant designs with a minimalist aesthetic.
In 1950, he designed the famous "Margherita" and "Gala" chairs made of woven cane. He also created the "Fiorenza" in 1952, the "Luisa" chair in 1955, and the "Rocking Chaise" for Poggi in 1956. Albini worked with many renowned companies, including Brionvega, Cassina, Arflex, Arteluce, and Poggi.
As a writer and editor, Albini contributed to the Italian magazine Casabella from 1945 to 1946. His legacy endures in contemporary design and architecture, where his minimalist approach and innovative use of materials continue to inspire.