This example represents a rare and historically significant survival from one of the most complex and compelling production histories in 20th-century design. 

Though long attributed solely to Le Corbusier, the chaise longue was originally conceived in 1929 by Charlotte Perriand, developed in collaboration with Le Corbusier and his cousin Pierre Jeanneret, and marketed under their joint names. Patented in 1929 and initially designated Model B 306, the design entered commercial production with Thonet in 1930.

At that time, Le Corbusier required that his name take precedence in authorship. The model was offered in two versions: a canvas-covered edition at 1,650 francs and a more luxurious hide-covered “de luxe” version at 3,070 francs, comparable to the present example. Despite its radical modernist aesthetic, sales were modest, only 172 examples were sold between June 1930 and July 1935. Thonet ceased production entirely in 1937.

Subsequent variations followed, including licensed and sub-licensed examples by Embru in the 1930s and unlicensed production by Wohnbedarf beginning in 1950.

Following the Second World War, Le Corbusier’s growing international stature led to renewed interest in his early tubular steel furniture. In 1959 he granted a license to Heidi Weber in Zurich to manufacture the series and entrusted her with the sale of his drawings and paintings. At this stage he stipulated sole authorship and renamed the model the LC 104. Weber’s carefully controlled production continued until 1965, when rights were sub-licensed to Cassina in Italy, marking the beginning of the model’s rebirth into the LC4.

Construction details confirm that the present chaise originates from this short-lived and important Heidi Weber production period. As such, it represents a crucial transitional chapter in the design’s evolution, bridging its avant-garde origins in the late 1920s with the internationally recognised icon it would later become. Weber-period examples are particularly prized for their rarity, historical integrity, and significance within the authorship narrative of modernism’s most defining works.

As with all our vintage pieces, this chaise has been carefully inspected and sympathetically restored to museum standards, ensuring both historical integrity and practical usability.

All springs have been custom-made and replaced to match the original size and coil count. The wadding in the mattress and bolster has been renewed. Supporting straps have been strengthened throughout. The entire piece has been professionally cleaned and presented in the best possible condition.

The leather bolster has worn beautifully over time and remains soft to the touch. The hide mattress shows a few minor areas of hair loss, consistent with age; these are subtle and do not detract from the overall presentation. The chaise retains a rich, authentic patina and remains as visually compelling and fully usable today as when first produced.

A rare opportunity to acquire a historically important yet practical example of this seminal modernist design.