Minimalissimo

L'oiseau

industrial design

This decorative wooden object was created by French design duo Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec for Vitra. Called L'oiseau (French for The Bird), the piece is a minimalist tribute to the famous Eames House Bird, which is also being produced by Vitra. Inspired by Nordic folk art, L'oiseau is made from solid maple and gently smoothed into a laconic shape. Here is what designers share about the project:

It is a simple bird without any other function than trying to propose a caring presence, a pleasant company. We have always been fascinated by animal representations whether they are primitive or more contemporary – from ivory bears made by the Inuit community to the Finnish birds made in blown glass. It could seem outdated to be interested in such subjects however we truly think that it is a necessary fantasy to continue supplementing this symbolic bestiary.

I love the joyful simplicity of the piece. It adds a sympathetic note to the interior without being kitschy or banal.

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