Chaise Tout Bois by Jean Prouvé for Vitra. A variant of the iconic wooden chair from 1941, made of wood without a single screw

A product designed by Jean Prouvé in 1941 is now being brought out again by Vitra: the Chaise Tout Bois, a chair made entirely of wood. Its design is very similar to that of Prouvé’s famous Standard chair. The profile of the rear part of the frame – the back legs and backrest support – is the hallmark of Prouvé's furniture and architecture, which focuses  on the point of union between the seat and backrest, where the stress from the load is greatest.            

Prouvé worked on several prototypes of this chair during the war to test the strength of the structure, the joints, the position of the legs and the join between seat and back. His choice of wood depended on what was available at the time. After the war, oak was widely available and highly appreciated for its toughness and durability so it was commonly used in France in ship building and the roofs of some cathedrals. These same features made it ideal for producing an all-wood chair. Today the Chaise Tout Bois, with a reassuring and contemporary aesthetic, is offered in light- and dark-colored oak: a true jewel of craftsmanship, built without using a single screw.    

What is it?
The Chaise Tout Bois is the only chair by Jean Prouvé made wholly of wood. Today Vitra is offering the original 1941 version, which fits in perfectly with the contemporary feel.       
What is the design concept?
During World War II certain materials such as metal were scarce, compelling Jean Prouvé to look for alternatives. For this reason, the Chaise Tout Bois is made entirely of wood.
How is it made?
It was originally made out of oak wood and plywood, also available in a dark version. Today the Chaise Tout Bois is available in light and dark oak with the height and seat meeting current standards and requirements.
How is it produced and where?
Tout Bois is produced in Germany from FSC certified German timber.
How is it manufactured?
Chaise Tout Bois is a variant of the 1941 seat. Its construction does not require a single screw. It calls for great skill in woodworking.
What makes it special?
It is painted without solvents, the forests from which the wood comes are FSC® certified, hence from woodland managed in compliance with the cycles of nature and in keeping with reforestation policies.
What is it like?
Classic, natural, strong.