The "Stone Settee" by James Kutasi (c. 1987)
Own a monumental piece of Australian design history with the incredibly rare, museum-quality “Stone Settee” by prominent furniture designer James Kutasi. Purchased originally in 1987 and offered publicly for the very first time, this iconic statement sofa is one of only two conceptual drafts ever actualised by the designer within this series. It flawlessly bridges the gap between radical avant-garde art and functional post-modern furniture and captures the iconic Memphis Art Movement style.
The Design & Heritage
Emerging from the bold, expressive era of late 1980s Australian studio furniture, the Stone Settee is heavily influenced by the global Memphis Design movement. Rather than using traditional heavy masonry, Kutasi masterfully constructed the piece using faux-stone laminate textures layered over sharp, monumental geometric forms. The result is a striking optical illusion—giving the commanding visual weight and raw texture of solid stone, but with the crisp, architectural lines characteristic of premium late-20th-century laminate craft.
While Kutasi created a companion chair as part of this twin-draft concept, this settee stands alone as the definitive structural anchor of the design.
Why It’s a Collector's Essential
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Ultra-Rare Provenance: One of only two physical drafts brought into existence from this series, making this an exceptionally rare acquisition opportunity for serious design collectors.
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Memphis Style Icon: A textbook definition of post-modernism, featuring contrasting geometric layers and graphic shapes that instantly elevate a high-end living area, gallery, or showroom.
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First Time Publicly Available: Sourced directly from its historical context, this museum-grade piece is offered on the open market for the first time since its creation.
Specifications & Condition
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Designer: James Kutasi
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Piece: "Stone Settee"
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Origin: Australia
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Period: Circa 1987
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Material: Architectural Faux-Stone Laminate on Custom Geometric Frame
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Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Possesses minor wear and characteristics consistent with its age, history, and material authenticity.
- Dimensions: 150cm W x 75cm D x 88cm H
Delivery can be arranged by request.
