Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto Set of 12 ‘Africa’ Dining Chairs Italy, 1975

These magnificent set of 12 ‘Africa’ dining chairs, designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa, are a wonderful addition to any dining room. They are part of the Artona collection by the Italian manufacturer Maxalto. These rare chairs, created in 1975, are renowned for their beautifully sculpted backrests with intriguing black lines and unique foot position, making them an architectural masterpiece.

Crafted from warm brown walnut wood and black leather seats, these chairs are a true testament to Scarpa’s understanding of wood and appreciation of the material’s imperfections. Every joint, shade, motif, and detail is worth noting and makes each chair unique. The brass connection of the feet at the back adds both practicality and elegance.

The Scarpa duo’s ‘Artona’ line, which marked the beginning of Maxalto, holds historical significance, as it was a counterpoint to the prevailing trend of using plastics in furniture design during the postwar era. Afra and Tobia Scarpa are award-winning postmodern Italian architects and designers whose pieces can be found in museums across the United States and Europe, including collections in MoMa and the Louvre Museum.

They have collaborated with companies such as B&B Italia, San Lorenzo Silver, Molteni, and Knoll International. They have won several awards, including the Compasso d’Oro in 1969 and the International Forum Design in 1992. Their design work includes architecture and everyday household items, including furniture, clothing, interior design, and art glass. Tobia’s father, Carlo Scarpa, a Venetian architect and designer, greatly influenced the couple.