A closely matched set of three original Pierre Jeanneret small stools, dating from circa 1960 and produced for the Post Graduate Institute in Chandigarh, India.

The stools combine substantial solid Burmese teak seats with simple painted iron tripod bases, a direct piece of utilitarian furniture designed for everyday institutional use. The circular teak tops have the characteristic concave surface found on Jeanneret's Chandigarh stools, softening the substantial timber and making them surprisingly comfortable to sit on.

All three stools retain their original P.G.I. institutional markings around the edge of the seats. The markings remain clearly visible and provide an important connection to their original working life at the Post Graduate Institute in Chandigarh.

We selected these three stools as a set because they work particularly well together. The colour and depth of patina across the Burmese teak seats are closely matched, as are the dark painted iron bases. There are natural variations between each stool, but when placed together they form a very cohesive group.

All three teak seats are original and have developed excellent patina through more than sixty years of use. The surfaces retain numerous dents, dings, scratches, small marks and areas of wear. These are not pieces that have been restored to look new, and for us that is an important part of their appeal. The accumulated wear gives each stool its individuality while their similar colour and surface make them especially successful as a set.

The iron bases have aged equally well. Areas of the original dark painted finish remain alongside oxidation, rubbing and exposed metal. The underside of the stool shown in the photographs gives a particularly good view of the construction and naturally patinated ironwork. In our experience, this type of wear and oxidation is exactly what we expect to see on Jeanneret stools of this age that have spent their working lives in Chandigarh's institutional buildings.

The construction is extremely simple. Three slender iron legs support the circular Burmese teak seat and are connected by an intersecting geometric footrest. The thin linear structure of the base contrasts beautifully with the weight and warmth of the solid timber top, giving the stools a very architectural quality.

We have always liked the versatility of these stools and regularly use examples ourselves at the gallery. They work equally well as occasional stools, small side tables or plant stands, and the set of three can be used together or placed individually around a room.

The stools have been carefully restored in London. The Burmese teak has been cleaned and waxed while retaining the original surface, marks and accumulated patina. The iron bases have likewise been cleaned without removing the oxidation, remaining paint or evidence of their long working lives. The intention has been to make each stool structurally sound and entirely usable without making it look newly restored.

We have specialised in Pierre Jeanneret furniture for nearly nineteen years and have extensive experience in identifying, sourcing, restoring and selling his work. Given the number of later reproductions and incorrectly attributed pieces now on the market, we understand the importance of provenance, construction, materials and restoration when assessing Chandigarh furniture. We are always happy to discuss these aspects in detail and answer any questions regarding the attribution, provenance or restoration of our Chandigarh pieces.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.