‘Papillon’ Lounge Chairs by Guido Maria Rosati for Giovannetti, Cognac Leather

A striking and highly collectible pair of “Papillon” lounge chairs, designed by Guido Maria Rosati for Giovannetti in 1972. One of the most iconic examples of Italian radical design, the Papillon combines sculptural aesthetics, exceptional comfort, and ingenious versatility in a form that remains remarkably contemporary over fifty years later.

This pair has undergone a complete professional restoration and has been entirely reupholstered by our artisans in a magnificent natural full-grain aniline leather, finished with traditional oil dyes and natural vegetable waxes, presented in a warm light cognac / honey tone. Exceptionally soft, rich, and supple to the touch, this premium leather has been selected for its authenticity, depth of character, and its ability to develop a beautiful patina over time.

An important characteristic of this leather is its natural aniline finish combined with oil and vegetable wax treatment. As a result, it will naturally develop marks, creases, scratches, tonal variations, and subtle shading through use and exposure to light. These are not defects but inherent and highly desirable qualities of this noble material, making each chair unique and allowing its appearance to evolve gracefully with age. Buyers seeking a perfectly uniform or heavily corrected leather surface should take this natural evolution into consideration.

Beyond the exterior upholstery, the restoration also included the complete refurbishment of the internal cushions and padding, ensuring excellent comfort and structural integrity. The chairs retain their original internal metal frame, preserving the authenticity and engineering of Rosati’s original design.

The ingenious construction allows the seat and backrest to be reversed, offering multiple configurations. The generous proportions and enveloping shape make them exceptionally comfortable as individual lounge chairs, while their design also lends itself beautifully to use as an intimate loveseat arrangement.

The soft organic silhouette, inspired by the shape of butterfly wings, creates a sculptural presence from every angle. Equally suited to sophisticated residential interiors, hospitality projects, galleries, or collector-focused spaces, these chairs embody the experimental spirit of 1970s Italian design.

Presented in excellent restored condition, featuring newly upholstered natural full-grain aniline leather and professionally renewed interiors.

Note: To preserve the leather’s beauty and encourage the development of an elegant natural patina, we recommend avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. As with all high-quality natural aniline leathers finished with oils and vegetable waxes, variations, marks, and subtle colour shifts will naturally emerge over time and should be appreciated as part of the material’s unique character.

A rare opportunity to acquire an iconic pair of Papillon chairs, expertly restored while respecting the originality and timeless appeal of Guido Maria Rosati’s celebrated design.