This distinctive bookcase was conceived to display works of art alongside books. Designed in Rio de Janeiro in 1962 for Jacques Martin, Charlotte Perriand’s husband, it was originally intended to be used in the reception area of his apartment. Made from typically Brazilian solid rosewood,the “Bibliothèque Rio de Janeiro” is characterised by its imposing dimensions and regal construction.
The sliding doors are made of woven cane, a local folk craft technique used to make the shades of traditional houses which Charlotte Perriand discovered during a trip to Brazil.
The unique existing model of the “Bibliothèque Rio de Janeiro” currently belongs to a private collection. While a legendary piece of design, over the past twenty-five years it has only been exhibited three times, in Paris, including at le Centre Pompidou and le Petit Palais. The creation
of a limited edition as part of the Saint Laurent – Charlotte Perriand collection offers the opportunity to bring Charlotte Perriand’s works of art to a wider audience.
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