An exceptional pair of early 20th-century chairs by Carlo Bugatti (1856–1940), known for his singular approach to design. These pieces, often referred to as “Lady Gong” chairs, feature the distinctive copper and parchment disk that defines the backrest and lends them their nickname.

Design

Each chair presents a dynamic interplay of geometric structure and decorative craft. The central disc is framed by radiating supports, with tassels draped elegantly from each side. The carved dark wood frames are detailed with arched cut-outs and inset legs, while stamped copper, brass intarsia, and pewter ornamentation enhance the surfaces.

Bugatti’s aesthetic blends influences from North African, Moorish, Japanese, and Middle Eastern design—rooted in his architectural training in Milan and Paris. From his Milan workshop on Via Castelfidardo, active until 1904, Bugatti developed a design vocabulary that defied stylistic categorization.

Carlo Bugatti was the father of automobile designer Ettore Bugatti. Rembrandt Bugatti, his other son, was a sculptor and sadly died at a very young age.

Condition

‍These chairs come from a private collection and have been profressionaly restored meticulously with respect to their originality. The original parchment has been left under the new parchment. The tassels have been reconstructed in silk and underneath both chairs, the underside of the original seats is left as is. The stamped copper parts as well as the intarsia in brass and pewter is original and complete.