Frequently Bought Together
Designed by Pierre Jeanneret in the 1950s for the new Indian capital of Chandigarh, this dining chair pairs the architect's signature V-leg "compass" frame with a hand-woven cane back and seat. Our reproduction set of 4 is built in solid walnut — a faithful reproduction of the original PJ-SI-25-A dining design from the Capitol Complex residential series.
About Pierre Jeanneret
Pierre Jeanneret (1896–1967) was a Swiss architect and designer who spent much of his career collaborating with his cousin Le Corbusier. Their partnership culminated in the planning and construction of Chandigarh, the new capital of Punjab, India, from 1951 to 1965 — one of the most ambitious modernist urban projects of the 20th century. While Le Corbusier focused on the master plan and civic monuments, Jeanneret stayed on the ground for over a decade, designing furniture for the Capitol Complex offices, libraries, courts, and residences.
The dining chair belongs to the residential furniture series, where Jeanneret refined his signature V-leg or "compass" form — a splayed A-frame structure that became his visual trademark. Originals from this series, mostly built in Burma teak by local craftsmen, now command auction-house prices and sit in museum collections worldwide.
Materials & Craftsmanship
Our reproduction holds to Jeanneret's structural vocabulary while updating the timber:
- Frame: solid walnut throughout — chosen for its warmer tone and tighter grain. The originals were typically Burma teak, which is increasingly restricted; walnut is a sustainable, equally honest alternative.
- Legs: the signature V-leg or "compass" structure — two splayed A-frames joined under the seat — cut and joined by hand for a clean mortise fit.
- Back and seat: natural Indonesian cane, hand-woven in the open weave typical of the Chandigarh residential series.
- Armrests: broad walnut armrests with hand-finished edges, in keeping with the original armchair-style dining model.
Cane is a living material — slight surface burrs and small tonal variations across the four chairs are normal and soften with use.
Specifications
| Quantity | Set of 4 |
|---|---|
| Overall height | 30.9" / 78.5 cm |
| Width | 20.9" / 53 cm |
| Depth | 21.3" / 54 cm |
| Seat height | 17.1" / 43.5 cm |
| Frame | Solid walnut, V-leg compass construction |
| Back & seat | Hand-woven natural Indonesian cane |
| Inspiration | Pierre Jeanneret PJ-SI-25-A, Chandigarh, c. 1955 |
Care & Assembly
Each chair ships partially disassembled and takes 10–15 minutes to put together using the included hex key and hardware. The V-leg base attaches to the seat frame with through-bolts; a soft cloth on the floor makes assembly easier.
To care for the solid walnut, dust with a soft cloth and apply a thin coat of furniture oil or beeswax polish every 6–12 months to maintain the grain depth. Keep the chairs out of prolonged direct sun, which can lighten walnut over time, and avoid placing them near heat vents or radiators. For the cane, dust with a soft brush attachment and wipe with a barely-damp cloth as needed; avoid harsh cleaners and constantly humid environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the V-leg or "compass" leg?
It's Pierre Jeanneret's signature leg form for the Chandigarh series — two splayed A-frames joined under the seat, resembling an open drafting compass. The geometry distributes weight outward, gives the chair a light visual stance, and became the most recognizable detail of Jeanneret's Indian furniture.
Walnut versus teak — why walnut?
The original Chandigarh chairs were built in Burma (now Myanmar) teak, which is today heavily restricted by CITES and sustainable-sourcing rules. Walnut is a responsible alternative with a comparable density and a warmer, slightly darker tone. The construction, proportions, and weave are identical to the teak version — only the timber differs.
Is this an original Chandigarh piece?
No. This is a faithful reproduction inspired by Jeanneret's PJ-SI-25-A dining chair. Originals from the 1950s–60s Chandigarh Capitol Complex are auction-grade pieces selling for thousands of dollars per chair; this reproduction is for buyers who want the design language and craft at a livable price.
How do I maintain solid walnut?
Walnut benefits from periodic oiling — once or twice a year, wipe the frame with a soft cloth and apply a thin coat of furniture oil or beeswax. Avoid silicone-based sprays, prolonged direct sun, and dramatic humidity swings. Small spills should be blotted (not rubbed) and dried immediately.
Will it match a teak Chandigarh table?
Walnut and teak are both warm-toned hardwoods, and the contrast tends to read as intentional rather than mismatched — a common look in collected mid-century interiors. If you want a closer color match, a tinted Danish oil on the walnut can pull the tone slightly toward teak's amber range.
Shipping & Returns
Free US shipping (typically arrives within 2 weeks). 30-day free returns. See our shipping policy and refund policy.
