Joe Colombo

Universale stacking side chairs

1967

Polypropylene and rubber

Not on view

Solid, stackable, and colorful, this chair reflects a late-1960s enthusiasm for modern plastic furniture that was particularly strong in Italy. Contemporary advertisements celebrated its adaptability and durability, declaring, "It won't age or break, you can throw it out the window, leave it outside, put it under water, take it to the North Pole or the desert: it will always be like new." As the model name "Universale" suggests, the chair could be used indoors or out, in public or private environments.

Gallery label from

From the Collection: 1960-69, March 26, 2016 - March 12, 2017.

Manufacturer Kartell S.p.A., Milan, Italy
Medium Polypropylene and rubber
Dimensions Each: 29 x 16 1/2 x 18 1/2" (73.7 x 41.9 x 47 cm), seat h. 16 15/16" (43 cm)
Credit Gift of the manufacturer
Object number 138.1988.1-3
Department Architecture & Design

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