Gio Ponti Set of Twelve Superleggera Chairs for Cassina, Italy, 1957

The Superleggera chair is a renowned design created by Italian architect and designer Gio Ponti. “Superleggera” translates to “super light” in Italian, which perfectly describes the chair’s main characteristic—its exceptionally lightweight construction.

Gio Ponti designed the Superleggera chair in 1957 for the company Cassina. It is considered an iconic piece of furniture design and a symbol of mid-century modern style. The chair features a minimalistic and elegant design, emphasizing simplicity and functionality.

The Superleggera chair’s frame is made of solid wood, typically ash or walnut, with slender and tapered legs. It incorporates a ladder-back design, with thin horizontal slats forming the backrest. The seat is typically made of a woven straw or rush material, adding to the chair’s lightness and natural aesthetic.

Ponti’s innovative approach to the chair’s construction led to its remarkable lightness while maintaining structural integrity. The use of lightweight materials and the careful design of the frame resulted in a chair that weighs only around 1.7 kilograms (3.7 pounds), hence its name.

The Superleggera chair has become an enduring design classic, celebrated for its harmonious proportions, refined details, and timeless appeal. It represents Gio Ponti’s mastery of combining form and function, creating a piece of furniture that is not only visually appealing but also practical and comfortable.