The AXA Art Conservation Project in cooperation with the Vitra Design Museum : research into glassfibre-reinforced polyester

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Publication Type:

Conference Paper

Authors:

Kessler, Kathrin; van Oosten, Thea; van Keulen, Henk;

Source:

Modern Art, New Museums: Contributions to the 2004 IIC Congress, Bilbao, p.86-90 (2004)

Keywords:

chairs, fiberglass, modern art, Panton, plastic, polyester, Verner (1926-98)

Abstract:

Introduces the examination and analytical research of one of the so-called "Panton chairs" designed by Verner Panton. This example is one of the early prototypes of the Panton chair from 1967-68, made from fiberglass-reinforced polyester. The research is part of the AXA Art Conservation Project in cooperation with the Vitra Design Museum. The authors briefly describe the design world of the 1950s and 1960s. Then they trace the technical development and production of the Panton chair from its beginnings until the present day and discuss the conservation of this early prototype. The inherent material properties of polyester, analysis of the polyester used in the Panton chair, and comparison of this chair with seven other Panton chairs made of fiberglass-reinforced polyester help explain the reasons for the fairly stable condition of the Panton chair today.