The Tongue armchair or F577 is an emblematic creation by the famous French designer Pierre Paulin. Designed in 1967, this armchair is immediately recognizable by its organic and sculptural shape allowing its user to adopt a relaxed and informal posture.
To understand this original foundation, let's go back to the 1960s, a decade which saw the birth of profound metamorphoses in lifestyles and a liberation of morals. The French, inspired by the spirit of emancipation blowing through the United States, expressed the desire to free themselves from the rigidities of the past. The stiff, stuffy seats that were once popular no longer found favor in the eyes of the new generation, eager for a more relaxed and comfort-oriented lifestyle. The designers therefore set about designing more welcoming seats, completely rethinking the art of sitting. The idea was to lie down, relax, live low to the ground, where comfort reigned supreme.
It is in this bubbling context that Pierre Paulin, an emblematic French designer born in 1927 and who died in 2009, entered the scene. He displayed his genius by creating seats that were both comfortable and revolutionary, challenging established norms. In 1967 he gave birth to the F577 armchair, better known as the Tongue Chair. Made in collaboration with the Dutch publishing house Artifort, this tongue-shaped seat whose base rests directly on the ground has a bold design. It consists of a frame covered with a textile cover in pop colors, containing polyurethane foam, a new material in vogue at the time. These high-quality materials contribute to its durability and neat aesthetic.
Paulin exploited the innovative manufacturing techniques of his time to bring new forms to life. Measuring 65 cm in height and 90 cm in length, its undulating silhouette harmoniously followed the curves of the body. The soft foam ensured luxurious comfort, inviting tranquility. Paulin's Tongue Chair thus symbolizes the revolutionary spirit of the 60s, where conventions gave way to innovation, creativity and the relaxed art of living. The Tongue armchair stands out for its organic shape, which evokes the silhouette of a human tongue. It features a soft, flowing curve, with a rounded back that resembles an open mouth.
The adventure of the Tongue armchair did not stop there. It has been continuously produced by Artifort, ensuring its lasting presence in the world of interior design. It has also become a cult object for collectors and design enthusiasts, underscoring its legendary status in furniture history.
