About Inspired by the noble praying mantis, the signature stance and powerful limbs of this chair offers a study in contrasts. Strong and elegant, sharp and curved, thick and thin, the Mantis is sturdy and solid, yet visually light. Designer Craig Bassam conceived the chair to be a new American Classic, an object that possessed measurable gravitas and wasn’t overly indebted to the Classic dining chairs associated with midcentury Europe. From certain angles, the Mantis chair feels almost like a piece of sculpture. Carved entirely from solid wood, it is a new alternative to the Classic and indestructible courthouse chair. Unlike many of its predecessors, however, comfort is at the forefront, with a commodious, ergonomically shaped seat. A handstitched leather cushion can be added to amplify both comfort and luxury. True to Bassam Fellows’ luxurious but authentic vision, each chair is unique and finishes never mask the natural beauty of the wood. Hence, the solid wood patinas beautifully with age (joints reinforced by steel pins ensure strength and durability) and each chair will last generations, a true 21st century heirloom. While the mantis may be thought of as an exotic species, this chair tends to look right at home wherever it is placed, both in contemporary and traditional interiors, and residential and contract applications. It’s no surprise that the striking piece has registered with architects and editors, the chair was selected for Paris’ Rem Koolhaas designed Le Dauphine Restaurant and Wallpaper Magazine’s W House, proving, perhaps unsurprisingly, that this new American Classic has acquired an international fan base.
