D.151.4

Overview

D.151.4 is an armchair that Gio Ponti designed for ocean liners and cruise ships that were upgraded or built after the war, and that Molteni&C now produces. The page dates the commission to the years 1949 to 1951.

Construction

The datasheet lists an aesthetic structure in solid American walnut, a solid wood seat with elastic bands and multi-density polyurethane filler, a contoured backrest made from metal crosspieces and injection-moulded polyurethane, brass ferrules and non-slip plastic floor slides. Both fabric and leather versions have a completely removable cover.

Specifications

• D.151.4 armchair: 70 cm wide and 74 cm deep; the drawing's tallest vertical value is 75 cm, which is not labelled on the drawing
• Structure finish: solid American walnut

Armchairs for six ships

The page says Gio Ponti was commissioned to design an armchair for four ocean liners and two cruises between 1949 and 1951: the Conte Grande, the Africa, the Oceania, the Conte Biancamano, the Andrea Doria and the Giulio Cesare. D.151.4 appeared on each, with slight variations to match each ship's interior. The datasheet says Ponti had direct experience of these vessels, which were upgraded or built from scratch after the war.

A maritime legacy for today

Molteni&C says the armchair carries the spirit of refined travel, blending timeless style with thoughtful ergonomics. The page adds that it translates the essence of Ponti's maritime legacy into a piece suited to contemporary living, with a connection to Italian craftsmanship and the romance of ocean travel.