Eames Elephant

 

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1945 Charles and Ray Eames designed the legendary Plywood Elephant. Only two prototypes of this complex design were manufactured, which directly went to a exhibition in the Museum of Modern Art New York after their production. Of the two known prototypes, only one remains in the Eames Family Archives.

Charles and Ray Eames were fascinated by elephants. Many images of these gentle giants are found in Charles' photographic documentations of Indian culture and the circus world. The Plywood Elephant was designed as a toy for children, but also as a striking sculptural object that makes a statement in any environment with its vigorous curves and delightful character.

To celebrate the 100th birthday of Charles Eames, Vitra is introducing a limited anniversary edition of the Eames Plywood Elephant, a legendary furniture sculpture that was designed in 1945 but never produced for general distribution and sale, which was sad, because Charles & Ray Eames designed the Plywood Elephant as a toy for children.

Because of that, Vitra decided, to produce a new version for children: the Eames Elephant made of plastic. The change of the material complies therefore with the most important motto of the designers: ''The most of the best to the greatest number of people for the least."

Charles und Ray Eames used in 1950 as the first designers the material plastic, to produce their seats for a good value. As the today's plastic shells, the Eames Elephant is also made of polypropylen. It is in five different colours available: red, ice-grey, white, dark lime and light pink.

Whether used as a toy (also outdoors) or a decorative item in a children's room - this friendly-looking animal with its distinctive, over-sized ears is bound to bring cheer and enjoyment to many a child's and parent's heart

The Eames Elephant has the safety- certificates GS and CE.

Design: Charles & Ray Eames

Charles Eames, born in 1907 in Saint Louis, Missouri - Ray Eames, born as Bernice Alexandra Kaiser in 1912 in Sacramento, Kalifornien designed trend-setting designs, which can be found wordlwide in numerous museums. Designer Charles & Ray Eames