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The above is a chaise longue found on TradeMe under
the listing "Italian Imported Chaise Lounge". Made by an unknown designer and manufacturer, all we know is that this chair is from Italy. A
chaise longue, meaning “long chair”, is akin to a sofa, but usually with one armrest and
backboard. The chaise was popularized in 19th Century
France as the economy and the arts blossomed with magnificence. The bourgeoisie
and royalty indulged in the arts, leisure and consequently, designed products.
This period of economic and political stability allowed for the
carefree atmosphere and thus the rest that was accommodated by the chaise
longue. This chaise clearly reflects the rococo aesthetic as seen in the
elegant rocaille, “gilding”, flower motif, fluid curvature and asymmetry. The
upholstery is also very regal, with a golden rope pattern atop a satin-like,
royal blue background. Although this chaise was probably manufactured within
the last five years, it resurrects a style that has been around for centuries.
However, this item begs the question: is this stylization necessary? The
chaise longue is a piece of furniture suitable for a myriad of social
situations and needless to say, modern versions of it exist. For example, take
the Onda Lounge Chair by Diego Granese:
It serves the same function yet uses different material and a whole new
approach to achieve a completely different aesthetic. However, some suggest
that the grandeur of rococo is still a symbol of status despite how the times
have changed. Is rococo truly representative of elegance and high society? It
is as designers and as consumers imperative that we consider the direction of
society and culture. Will the pendulum of design always be in perpetual motion
or are we heading towards a singularity in the near distant future?
Reference:
Jones, G. (2011). The Chaise Longue - A Classic Item of French Furniture [Webpage]. Retrieved from http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Chaise-Longue---A-Classic-Item-of-French-Style-Furniture&id=6148658
Granese, D. (2003). 07.jpg [Image], Onda, Granese Architecture & Art Studio. Retrieved from http://www.granese-design.com/Images/Design/07.jpg
