Metalworker Xavier Pauchard not only brought the art of galvanizing steel to France, but took the process to the next level by creating the Marais A Chair (1934), the quintessential cafe chair that was both elegant and robust enough to grace the decks of the S.S. Normandie ocean liner. After the sudden death of Pauchard in 1948, his son Jean took over as managing director of their company, Tolix. In 1956, he designed an armchair to go with his father's Marais A, naming it the A56, and hence created another 20th century classic. All Tolix metal furniture is still made in Autun, the same Burgundy town where it all began. Slight surface abrasions and markings are characteristic of the material and part of its hardworking machine aesthetic. Rubber feet prevent damage to floors. The Marais Collection will stand up to the rigors of public use, but should be protected from wet weather conditions to maintain the finish. Stackable up to 10 high. Made in France.