Pair of Armchairs, Model 836
Manufactured by Cassina
Italy, 1955
Wood, Brass, Upholstered fabric

Measurements
78 × 57,5 × 74 h cm
30,7 × 22,6 × 29,1 h in

Details
Manufacturer's label

Literature
Domus, no. 361, December 1959, p. 68
G. Gramigna, Repertorio del design italiano 1950–2000, Allemandi, 2021, p. 41

About
Designed by Gianfranco Frattini for Cassina in 1955, Model 836 reflects the designer’s refined approach to proportion, material balance, and understated elegance.
The armchairs feature a solid wooden frame with subtle sculptural shaping, accented by brass details that introduce a warm, architectural contrast. The gently angled backrest and upholstered seat offer comfort while maintaining a clean, modern silhouette typical of Italian mid-century design.
Model 836 represents Frattini’s early yet mature contributions to postwar Italian furniture, combining craftsmanship from Cassina’s Meda workshops with a design language that is both rational and sensuous. The model is well documented in period publications, including Domus, underscoring its relevance in the history of Italian modernism.

Biography
Gianfranco Frattini was born in Italy on May 15, 1926. He graduated in architecture from the prestigious Politecnico di Milano in 1953. Shortly after, he established his own professional practice in Milan, following a formative experience working under his teacher and mentor, the legendary Giò Ponti.
Frattini’s journey into industrial design began out of necessity—he lacked suitable lighting and furniture for his interior projects. This led him to create custom pieces, ultimately becoming a celebrated industrial designer. In 1954, he began a long-standing collaboration with Cesare Cassina for his namesake company, which paved the way for partnerships with many iconic manufacturers, including Bernini, Arteluce, Acerbis, Fantoni, Artemide, Luci, Knoll, Lema, and others.
In 1956, Frattini co-founded the Associazione per il Disegno Industriale (Association for Industrial Design), an organization dedicated to advancing the discipline of industrial design in Italy. Throughout his career, he practiced both industrial design and architecture, with a particular focus on interior design. His dedication to the craft earned him a position as a board member of the Triennale di Milano, further solidifying his influence in the world of design.
A true connoisseur of wood craftsmanship, Frattini developed a deep appreciation for artisanal techniques. He formed a remarkable partnership with master craftsman Pierluigi Ghianda from Bovisio Masciago (Milan), resulting in exquisitely detailed and innovative designs that remain timeless examples of Italian craftsmanship.
Gianfranco Frattini’s legacy lies in his ability to seamlessly blend traditional techniques with modern design, leaving a lasting impact on both the fields of industrial design and architecture.