Bartholdi + Hörr

Bartholdi + Hörr, the designers of Stolz & Demut, have torn down the barriers between art and design and created two design objects, both challenging perception, both inviting interaction. Each available as limited editions of 12 only.

Demut

Demut

“We all have a purpose and we all serve that purpose. Being proud, holding our head up high is positive, but it doesn’t mean that we can’t or shouldn’t be humble at the same time. Pride without humility is arrogance” say Bartholdi + Hörr.

A magnetic copper weight is attached directly to the wood, making the light bend more or less depending on the position of the weight.

The craftsmanship is outstanding, and again the two artists explore uncharted territory. To get the wood to bend and take the strain of the weight proved extremely challenging. Getting a magnet to stick to wood is, of course, an illusion, but the effect on the audience is simply disbelief. CHF 35,000

Stolz

Stolz

A floating wing-shaped chaise longue crafted of solid wood and steel. ‘Stolz’ is German for pride – and Bartholdi + Hörr can indeed be proud of their achievement. It is also a contraction of ‘Stahl’ (steel) and ‘Holz’ (wood), the only two materials used to create ‘Stolz’.

A prototype was first presented in 2000 and since then the piece has been perfected. It should be impossible to craft the wood in the way the two designers have.

The piece is as much a celebration of Swiss craftsmanship as it is a joy to look at. The shape is clean, crisp, yet soft, a natural flow. And if ever you have the chance to actually sit on one, it will be an experience to remember. CHF 60,000