Italian "Laser" Walnut + Leather Armchair by Tarcisio Colzani, 1970s

A "Laser" armchair designed by Tarcisio Colzani for Mobilgirgi in Italy, circa 1970s.

Crafted in walnut and leather, the chair reflects Colzani's understanding of furniture as both structure and craft. Broad walnut uprights form the legs and armrests in a continuous architectural frame, joined at the corners with exposed finger joints. Dark inset fasteners remain deliberately visible along the sides, making the chair's construction part of its design.

Rather than conventional upholstery, the seat and back are formed from panels of cognac leather suspended within the wooden frame. The leather wraps around cylindrical supports at the back and stretches between horizontal rails at the seat, creating a low, gently reclined sling that contrasts with the substantial walnut structure.

The son of a carpenter, Colzani studied at Milan's Brera Art School before beginning his career in the technical office of a furniture manufacturer, where he developed an extensive knowledge of materials and production techniques. By 1975, he was working independently and would go on to collaborate with leading Italian furniture manufacturers, including a longstanding relationship with Porada.

That background is particularly evident in the Laser chair. The finger-jointed corners, exposed connections and cylindrical supports are not concealed beneath upholstery, but left visible as integral parts of the design. The construction is unusually legible: each connection explains how the chair is held together, while the suspended leather provides flexibility against the substantial wooden frame.

Produced by Mobilgirgi in Cantù, the Laser reflects the close relationship between modern design and cabinetmaking associated with northern Italian furniture production. Here, substantial walnut construction is balanced by suspended leather, creating a chair that feels architectural yet remarkably spare.