Early LC-1 lounge chairs - Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret & Charlotte Perriand - Cassina Italy

EARLY NUMBERED CASSINA EDITIONS IN BLACK LEATHER AND CHROMED STEEL

An exceptional pair of early numbered LC1 Fauteuils, one of the defining masterpieces of twentieth-century modernist furniture, designed by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret and Charlotte Perriand and produced by Cassina, Italy, circa 1968.

Originally conceived in 1928 and presented at the 1929 Salon d’Automne in Paris, the LC1 — officially known as the “Fauteuil à dossier basculant” — is an extraordinary exercise in structural clarity. Its tubular steel architecture, suspended seat and pivoting backrest reduce the armchair to its essential components while retaining an unmistakably elegant and remarkably contemporary presence. Cassina began its authorised production of the design in 1965.

This particular pair is especially interesting for its remarkably early production numbers. Both chairs carry the engraved Le Corbusier signature and individual LC/1 numbers directly on their chromed tubular frames: LC/1 3129 and LC/1 3394. Based on these exceptionally low production numbers and comparison with other documented early Cassina examples, we estimate the pair to have been produced circa 1968. Only 265 numbers separate the two chairs, making them a particularly compelling closely numbered pair from the early years of Cassina production.

The chairs feature beautifully preserved chromed tubular steel frames combined with black leather seats, pivoting backrests and leather arm straps. Beneath the seats, the characteristic exposed metal spring construction remains beautifully visible, with brass-toned eyelets and naturally aged metal components adding further character. The restrained combination of black leather, polished chrome and exposed construction perfectly expresses the architectural nature of the LC1.

Almost a century after the original design and more than half a century after these examples were produced, the LC1 remains remarkably radical. Its visual lightness, mechanical honesty and graphic silhouette make it as relevant in a contemporary interior today as it was at the birth of modern furniture design. Finding two closely numbered early Cassina examples together gives this pair an additional historical and collectible dimension.

Condition

Very good vintage condition with age-related traces of use consistent with their age. The chromed tubular frames remain beautifully preserved with minor surface wear and patina. The black leather shows light signs of use, natural ageing and patina while retaining a strong overall appearance. The exposed spring construction and brass-toned eyelets show natural oxidation and ageing. The leather, construction and overall ageing appear highly consistent across both chairs. The exact originality and age of every individual leather component have not been independently certified. Please refer to the detailed photographs for an accurate impression of the condition.

Technical details

• Designers : Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret & Charlotte Perriand

• Model : LC1 / Fauteuil à dossier basculant

• Manufacturer : Cassina

• Country : Italy

• Period : Circa 1968

• Dating : Estimated from the early LC/1 production numbers and comparison with documented early Cassina examples

• Cassina production : From 1965

• Edition : Early numbered Cassina production

• Serial numbers : LC/1 3129 and LC/1 3394

• Frame : Chromed tubular steel

• Upholstery : Black leather

Dimensions

• Width : 60 cm

• Depth : 65 cm

• Height : 64 cm

• Seat height : 40 cm

• Arm height : 58 cm

Pricing

• € 7.800 / set

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