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Airplane Pilot’s Seat

Charles Eames, Ray Eames

1943

In addition to splints, Ray and Charles developed and produced airplane parts for the US Navy. This bucket-shaped shell accommodated the fighter pilot’s seat parachute. Like the splint construction, the slots in the base served a dual function: they allowed the molded plywood to curve without breaking and created an ideal opening to secure the detachable parachute straps.

A black stencil “PLYFORMED” is on the front seat back. “CONNECTIONS 1976” is printed in black ink on a paper label attached to the underside.

  • Manufacturer: Plyformed Wood Company
  • Medium:Birch
  • Dimensions:23 x 18 x 18 in. (58.4 x 45.7 x 45.7 cm)
  • Item:2019.2.35