Active in the early and mid-twentieth century, Marseille-based duo Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet specialised in Abaca which gives their furniture an exotic appeal. Their endeavour coincides with an initiative of the forward-thinking Modernist designers in France working to democratise design and reach the less wealthy clientele using innovative, affordable materials.

In comparison to their Danish Modern counterparts, led by Hans Wegner with a more disciplined weaving approach, Andoux-Minet’s braided rope pieces assert expressiveness. This armchair is more loosely woven, taking advantage of the void between the ropes to reveal the distinct interlacing and the rustic quality of the material.

The oak frame went through a painstaking process of Vernis au Tampon (French polishing) in which multiple layers of shellac is applied on the wood to achieve a soft lustre that complements the abaca’s raw texture. The skeleton of the armchair looks deceptively effortless – it is made with ergonomic considerations that elevate the comfort level. Alongside the raised arms, the chair’s rear is slightly arched backwards to let the body rest at the most ideal posture.