Rare pair of DU 43 armchairs by Gastone Rinaldi for RIMA, 1950.

An exceptionally rare pair of DU 43 armchairs, designed by Gastone Rinaldi and produced by RIMA in Italy in the early 1950s. Representing one of the earliest sculptural explorations of wire mesh seating in post-war Italian design, the DU 43 perfectly illustrates Rinaldi's innovative approach of combining industrial materials with an elegant, almost weightless silhouette. The seat, with its organic curves formed from welded steel mesh, appears to float above its distinctive geometric iron base, creating a striking balance between lightness and structural rigor. This pair belongs to the highly sought-after first production series, identifiable by its hand-welded construction, characteristic mesh pattern, and refined angular frame. Much rarer than later editions, these early examples embody the experimental spirit that made Gastone Rinaldi one of the most innovative figures in mid-century Italian design. The armchairs retain their original dark patina finish, displaying a beautiful and honestly developed surface over the decades. Subtle oxidation, wear, and irregularities contribute to their sculptural character and authenticate their age. Their open construction allows light to pass through the structure, giving the pieces an almost architectural presence while remaining visually delicate. Today, original first edition DU 43 armchairs are rarely encountered on the market, especially as a matching pair. Their significance lies not only in their rarity but also in their position within the history of Italian modernism, anticipating the wire furniture experiments that would become influential internationally in the decades that followed. A pair worthy of a museum of iconic Italian design objects, equally captivating as functional seating and as sculptural statements within a contemporary interior.