Letizia

Designed by Gastone Rinaldi in 1954 for Rima, the Du 55 armchair has been reissued since 2013 as Letizia by Poltrona Frau. It represents one of the most mature expressions of the Paduan designer's research into the synthesis between industrial rigor and organic comfort.

Technical Profile and Materials

The model stands out for its adoption of technical solutions advanced for the time, where the padding does not yet use molded polyurethane foam, but foam rubber (specifically Pirelli foam rubber) arranged in layers and sections. This system nevertheless allows for soft and continuous volumes. The supporting structure is made of steel, with a suspension system relying on elastic belts for both the seat and the backrest. Characteristic are the tapered metal tubular feet lacquered in black and often completed with brass tips that add a touch of mid-century elegance. The leg structure was also available in a version made of iron rods covered in elegant turned wood.

Innovation and Morphology

Du 55 is the result of a careful study on the relationship between solids and voids and on the continuity of the line. The most innovative element lies in the suspended backrest, which remains connected to the structure only through the front part of the seat: this solution exploits the natural elasticity of the metal to offer a dynamic seat that adapts to the user's movements. The curved and enveloping shell ensures a high level of ergonomics, while communicating a strong formal coherence.

Historical Context and Reissues

The model gained immediate critical acclaim, being presented in 1955 at the second edition of the Compasso d'Oro Award for product aesthetics. The Du 55 series was originally highly articulated and included, in addition to the classic armchair (Du 55 a), an armchair version (Du 55 p), a sofa, and a swivel office version (Du 55 g).

Today, the historical value and aesthetic relevance of the project are confirmed by its presence in the catalogs of Poltrona Frau, which offers a reissue faithful to the original spirit but updated in the upholstery materials.