Vintage 1980s French Philippe Starck “Dr. Sonderbar” Chairs for XO in Chrome Steel
Vintage 1980s French Philippe Starck “Dr. Sonderbar” Chairs for XO in Chrome Steel
The Details
Designer: Philippe Starck
Dimensions: H 63cm x W 91cm x D 49cm x Seat Height 39cm
Materials: Chromed steel
Period: Circa 1980
Place of Origin: Produced by XO in France
Style: Postmodern
Condition: Very good vintage condition
The Story
This vintage French postmodern chair know as the "Dr. Sonderbar" chair, designed by Philippe Starck in 1983, is a notable example of experimental European design. It showcases many of Starck's key design principles, including a blend of functionality and artistry, a minimalist aesthetic, and a touch of whimsy.
The chair's name, "Dr. Sonderbar," is a direct reference to a character from the science fiction novel ‘Ubik’ by Philip K. Dick. Starck was fascinated by the novel and named many of his early designs after its characters and locations. This connection to science fiction gives the chair a futuristic and intellectual edge. The "Dr. Sonderbar" chair, produced by the French company XO, is considered a significant piece in Starck's body of work and an icon of French product design from the 1980s.
The curved, tubular steel design is a nod to Starck’s childhood spent around the works of his aeronautical engineer father.
Both sculptural and functional, these vintage postmodern chairs work beautifully as accent seating, or statement pieces within contemporary interiors.
Two available (with slight variations).
Condition Report
The chairs are structurally sound and fully functional.
The chromed metal frame has minimal signs of wear consistent with age. Light surface wear, gentle finish mellowing or small historic marks may be visible, contributing to warmth and individuality.
Overall presented in very good vintage condition.
Provenance & Authenticity
- Authentic vintage piece designed by Philippe Starck in 1983
- Produced by XO, France
Styling Notes
- Ideal for accent or statement seating
- Pairs well with postmodern, minimalist, and contemporary interiors
Collector Notes
- Documented example of Philippe Starck's early postmodern design
- Iconic piece of 1980s French product design
Browse more vintage seating.
All sales are final on this item.
The Details
Designer: Philippe Starck
Dimensions: H 63cm x W 91cm x D 49cm x Seat Height 39cm
Materials: Chromed steel
Period: Circa 1980
Place of Origin: Produced by XO in France
Style: Postmodern
Condition: Very good vintage condition
The Story
This vintage French postmodern chair know as the "Dr. Sonderbar" chair, designed by Philippe Starck in 1983, is a notable example of experimental European design. It showcases many of Starck's key design principles, including a blend of functionality and artistry, a minimalist aesthetic, and a touch of whimsy.
The chair's name, "Dr. Sonderbar," is a direct reference to a character from the science fiction novel ‘Ubik’ by Philip K. Dick. Starck was fascinated by the novel and named many of his early designs after its characters and locations. This connection to science fiction gives the chair a futuristic and intellectual edge. The "Dr. Sonderbar" chair, produced by the French company XO, is considered a significant piece in Starck's body of work and an icon of French product design from the 1980s.
The curved, tubular steel design is a nod to Starck’s childhood spent around the works of his aeronautical engineer father.
Both sculptural and functional, these vintage postmodern chairs work beautifully as accent seating, or statement pieces within contemporary interiors.
Two available (with slight variations).
Condition Report
The chairs are structurally sound and fully functional.
The chromed metal frame has minimal signs of wear consistent with age. Light surface wear, gentle finish mellowing or small historic marks may be visible, contributing to warmth and individuality.
Overall presented in very good vintage condition.
Provenance & Authenticity
- Authentic vintage piece designed by Philippe Starck in 1983
- Produced by XO, France
Styling Notes
- Ideal for accent or statement seating
- Pairs well with postmodern, minimalist, and contemporary interiors
Collector Notes
- Documented example of Philippe Starck's early postmodern design
- Iconic piece of 1980s French product design
Browse more vintage seating.
All sales are final on this item.
