Pair of Costes armchairs by Philippe Starck, circa 1984.

Pair of "Costes" armchairs designed by Philippe Starck for Aleph Driade, Italy, circa 1984. Structure in black lacquered tubular steel, shell in curved plywood with a black finish, fixed cushions covered in black leather. Originally designed for the Café Costes in Paris, the chair embodies Starck's pursuit of functionality and elegance - featuring only three legs to facilitate cleaning and movement, carefully studied ergonomics, and a timeless, instantly recognisable shape. Later editions added a hole in the backrest for easy handling. Visible signs of restoration in the photos. Manufacturer: Aleph Driade, Italy, circa 1984. Bibliography: 1000 Chairs, Charlotte and Peter Fiell, Taschen Editions, 2005, similar model reproduced in colour p. 508.