First-generation Zenith rope-edge armchair designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller, produced in the 1950s. This early fiberglass shell shows the dense, irregular threading associated with Zenith Plastics’ first production runs for Herman Miller. The elephant hide gray colorway has developed a warm, sun-aged patina over time. The rope-edge molding remains intact along the perimeter, framing the form.
The shell retains its original X-base with all original glides present. A small chip is present along the seat edge. The underside retains the Zenith checkerboard label alongside the Herman Miller Furniture Company mark.
Zenith Plastics, based in Gardena, California, produced the earliest Eames fiberglass shells under contract for Herman Miller during a brief initial production period. Rope-edge examples remain among the most sought-after Eames shell variants for their material character, visible fiberglass texture, and limited production window.
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Model: Zenith Rope-Edge Armchair
Origin: USA
Date: 1950s
Materials: Fiberglass, steel
Dimensions: 31" H x 25" W x 22" D
Seat Height: 17" H
First-generation Zenith rope-edge armchair designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller, produced in the 1950s. This early fiberglass shell shows the dense, irregular threading associated with Zenith Plastics’ first production runs for Herman Miller. The elephant hide gray colorway has developed a warm, sun-aged patina over time. The rope-edge molding remains intact along the perimeter, framing the form.
The shell retains its original X-base with all original glides present. A small chip is present along the seat edge. The underside retains the Zenith checkerboard label alongside the Herman Miller Furniture Company mark.
Zenith Plastics, based in Gardena, California, produced the earliest Eames fiberglass shells under contract for Herman Miller during a brief initial production period. Rope-edge examples remain among the most sought-after Eames shell variants for their material character, visible fiberglass texture, and limited production window.
Designer: Charles and Ray Eames
Manufacturer: Herman Miller
Model: Zenith Rope-Edge Armchair
Origin: USA
Date: 1950s
Materials: Fiberglass, steel
Dimensions: 31" H x 25" W x 22" D
Seat Height: 17" H
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