Bibendum chair by Eileen Gray
The name
The word bibendum is a form of the latin word bibeo “to drink.” The actual meaning of this form can be translated something like “drinking is to be done.” However, you would be grossly mistaken were you to assume that this chair is “a drinking chair” of sorts (although it might as well be one, because it is comfortable and large so that a drunk person would not likely fall out of it). The reference made in the chair’s name is to the Michelin Tire Man, also known as Bibendum. The chair, of course, bears a striking resemblance to the puffy mascot of the French tire maker. The actual phrase used in late 19th century advertisements was “Nunc est bibendum.” It comes from Horace:
Nunc est bibendum, nunc pede libero
pulsanda tellus… (Carmina, Book 1, xxxvii).“Now is the time to drink, now (is the time) to beat the ground with an idle foot.”
It may sound confusing as to why a tire manufacturing was using this line as a motto. The idea was that the Michelin man imbibes road obstacles, as if they were simply poured into a glass. Yes, hardly the best use of an advertising slogan (not a bad slogan, technically). It has not been in common use for decades. But this exactly is where the Bibendum chair name comes from. One wonders if it can be finally reinterpreted to suggest that this is indeed “a drinking chair”?
The design
Chromed tubular steel with cloth or leather upholstered backrest of stacked rolls shaped as a semi-circle, slightly tilted backwards. Eileen Gray (1878 – 1976) designed this furniture piece at the time when art-deco was in the height of its glory, but the Bibendum chair is simple enough in design to stand on its own, in any time period. The first original copes were made in the 1920s, after which they were largely forgotten. In the 1970s, Eileen Gray sold manufacturing rights to Aram. Gray experimented with upholstery, the chair can be seen in different colors in either leather or fabric. Curiously, even rubber was used at one point, as a nod to the tire connection.
Where to use Bibendum chais
It has been noted that a Bibendum chair practically invites you to sit down in it. This means that the entire room has to be supportive of this invitation. A Bibendum chair is an instrument of comfort and relaxation and it works best in spaces where relaxation is the primary purpose. This naturally includes luxurious bedrooms, but also certain living rooms. There simply has to be an element of intimacy and privacy. However, these spaces cannot be small or cozy. The Bibendum chair is rather large in size and it should not be cramped in a small apartment. Yet it will speak volumes about a spacious high-end living space in a prestigious neighborhood, confirming its value and desirability.
Where to buy a Bibendum chair
If you are looking for a cheap look imitation of a Bibendum chair you probably will not find it. This separates the Bibendum from other design icons, such as the Barcelona chair which can be found at a low price if you are willing to sacrifice the quality and the official stamp. The license for this design is held by Aram and you would have to purchase your chair either from them or from one of the licensee’s, such as Classicon. The price is likely going to be above $3,000. These chairs are unique and typically made to order. But if you absolutely must have one, how about a dollhouse Bibendum chair for just $20?
Top image of this article is by Classicon, manufacturer authorized by the world license Holder Aram Designs Lt.