Thonets

Thonets are a type of bentwood furniture, most famously associated with the work of Michael Thonet. Thonet was a German-Austrian cabinetmaker who developed a groundbreaking process for bending solid wood. This technique, perfected in the mid-19th century, allowed for the creation of lightweight, yet durable, furniture pieces that could be mass-produced.

The process involved steaming wood, typically beech, until it was pliable. The softened wood was then bent into desired shapes using molds and allowed to dry. This method eliminated the need for complex joinery and reduced material waste, making Thonet furniture remarkably affordable and efficient to manufacture.

The most iconic Thonet design is the chair number 14, also known as the bistro chair. Introduced in 1859, it became incredibly popular due to its simple elegance, sturdy construction, and ease of assembly and disassembly. Its modular design meant that broken parts could be easily replaced.

Thonet's innovative approach had a significant impact on furniture design and production. His bentwood furniture found its way into homes, cafes, and public spaces worldwide, becoming a symbol of modern, accessible design. The company he founded, Thonet GmbH, continues to produce furniture today, upholding the legacy of bentwood craftsmanship.