French R3 'Boule' Fiberglass Chair by Charles Zublena, 1960's
A rare French R3 armchair, titled Boule—the French word for "ball"—designed by Charles Zublena and produced by Les Plastiques de Bourgogne during the 1960s-70s, at a time when new materials were transforming the possibilities of furniture design.
The chair is conceived as a single volume. Its rounded form is carved away to create a deep, enveloping seat, blurring the distinction between object and architecture. Rather than relying on ornament, the design finds its presence through proportion and geometry, allowing the silhouette to remain striking from every angle.
Formed from a polyester fiber shell, the chair retains its original white lacquer finish, emphasizing the purity of its shape and the material innovation that defined the period. The smooth surface catches light evenly, reinforcing the softness of the spherical form while contrasting with the precision of the opening that welcomes the sitter.
Charles Zubrena (1910-1979) was born in Italy but spent most of his career in France. He is best known for his contributions to industrial furniture design and the use of fiberglass.
DIMENSIONS: 41"W x 35"D x 22"H
ADDITIONAL DIMENSIONS:
SEAT HEIGHT: 13"
ORIGIN: France
PERIOD: 1960s
MATERIALS: Acrylic
CONDITION:
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