Du 41

The Du 41 armchair, designed by Gastone Rinaldi for Rima in 1957, represents a successful result of his research into the formal synthesis of the metal object.

Formal and Technical Profile

Du 41 is characterized by its steel rod structure, defined by a "classic circular line" (which is actually a modified circumference) shaping its plastic profile. From a functional point of view, the design responds to the spatial rationalization requirements pursued by Rinaldi, resulting in a stackable model.

Awards and Historical Context

The model gained institutional prominence, being awarded the Silver Medal at the XI Milan Triennale of 1957. That same year, architect Melchiorre Bega selected Du 41 to furnish the "art director's studio" inside the exhibition Colors and shapes in today's home, organized by Ico Parisi at Villa dell’Olmo (Como). The furniture was destined for the Galfa Tower in Milan, designed by Bega himself.

Du 41 testifies to Rinaldi's method based on direct experimentation in the workshop, capable of transforming the steel rod into an airy and dynamic structure, consistent with the aesthetics of post-war Italian design.

The chair was re-edited by Zanotta in 1995 under the name Luna.