Knoll Cross Check Chair
Seating (Armchair / Side Chair) · Modernist / Postmodernism (Designed 1990, based on early 20th-century experimentation) · Frank Gehry for Knoll
Type
Seating (Armchair / Side Chair)
Style Period
Modernist / Postmodernism (Designed 1990, based on early 20th-century experimentation)
Material
Laminated maple wood veneers, high-bonding urea glue, and clear plastic glides.
Age Estimate
Likely manufactured between 1992 and the present; this specific piece shows minor wear suggesting it is at least 10–20 years old.
Dimensions
Height: 33 inches, Width: 28 inches, Depth: 25 inches; comparable to a standard ergonomic lounge or desk chair.
Origin
USA / Canada. Manufactured by Knoll in accordance with Gehry's architectural experiments in light-weight structures.
Designer/Maker
Frank Gehry for Knoll
Value Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 (Retail/Secondary Market); value is highly dependent on the presence of the Knoll/Gehry branding and the lack of delamination.
Description
An iconic sculptural armchair characterized by its woven ribbons of maple. Inspired by the strength of apple crates Gehry played with as a child, the chair creates a light, airy silhouette that belies its incredible structural strength. It is a masterpiece of fluid geometry and material innovation.
Key Features
Basket-weave structure, absence of metal fasteners, continuous ribbon-like arms and back slats, and the stamped signature of Frank Gehry usually found on the underside.
Color & Finish
Natural maple finish with a clear lacquer topcoat; exhibits warm honey tones with a smooth, semi-gloss sheen.
Construction Method
Hand-assembled using bentwood lamination techniques. The chair utilizes a unique design where the structural ribbons of wood are woven and glued together without the need for traditional metal fasteners.
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Bentwood lamination and high-strength adhesive bonding. The craftsmanship is characterized by the seamless weaving of vertical and horizontal maple strips.
Wood Grain & Species
Hard maple (Acer saccharum); features a clean, tight, and mostly straight grain with occasional subtle 'birds-eye' or cathedral patterns in the wider seat area.
Surface Treatment
Clear matte or satin lacquer finish; the surface is smooth to the touch and highlights the natural luminescence of the white maple.
Upholstery Details
N/A; this is a hard-surface chair relying on the natural flex of the bentwood for comfort.
Hardware & Fittings
Hardware-free construction; no visible screws or bolts are used in the main assembly. Clear plastic glides on the base protect flooring.
Origin & Provenance
USA / Canada. Manufactured by Knoll in accordance with Gehry's architectural experiments in light-weight structures.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. There is minor surface scratching on the seat consistent with normal use. Structural integrity appears excellent with no visible delamination of the veneer strips.
Interesting Facts
The design was inspired by apple crates. It took two years of prototyping to perfect the glue and lamination process to ensure the chair could support weight without metal joints.
Cultural Significance
Winner of several design awards, this chair is held in the permanent collections of the MoMA and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It represents a bridge between architecture and furniture design.
Similar Pieces
Knoll Hat Trick Chair (armless, smaller scale), Knoll Power Play Chair (larger, high back), and High Sticking Lounge Chair (includes ottoman).
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or excessive moisture which could penetrate the lamination. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent the maple from yellowing unevenly.
Value Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 (Retail/Secondary Market); value is highly dependent on the presence of the Knoll/Gehry branding and the lack of delamination.
Sustainability Notes
Constructed from sustainable maple veneers and designed for extreme longevity. Its single-material focus makes it more recyclable than multi-material composite chairs.