Michael Thonet

Michael Thonet, a German furniture maker, is best known for his innovative bentwood chairs, a technique that involved shaping wood through steam and pressure. His famous "No. 14" chair, designed in 1859, became a mass-produced icon of the 19th century. The chair is distinguished by its simple, elegant design and sturdy construction, and was highly sought after for its affordability and durability. This revolutionary design of bentwood furniture, also known as Thonet-style furniture, had a significant impact on the development of modern furniture.