Renowned for his groundbreaking designs, Jony Ive has made a significant impact on both technology and art. The former Chief Design Officer of Apple Inc. is celebrated for his role in creating iconic products such as the iMac, iPod, iPhone, and Apple Watch. Now, he expands his creative legacy with a new venture into the art world.
Christie's has collaborated with LoveFrom, the design studio co-founded by Ive and Marc Newson in 2019, to create a modern rostrum for their auction house. This elegant piece, crafted from oak sourced from the same French forest that provided wood for the restoration of the Notre-Dame cathedral, was unveiled at Christie's London headquarters.
This new rostrum replaces the traditional mahogany version, originally designed by the esteemed English craftsman Thomas Chippendale in the 1700s for James Christie, the founder of the auction house. The Chippendale rostrum has been a staple at Christie's for over 260 years, used in various international locations until its destruction during a bombing in 1941.
In a statement, Christie's emphasized that Sir Jony Ive was the only choice for this redesign, highlighting his unique vision and expertise. The contemporary rounded design of the new rostrum echoes the sleek aesthetics of Ive's famed technological creations.
As Christie's prepares to implement these innovative rostrums across its global offices throughout the year, it marks a new chapter in the intersection of art and design, showcasing how modern aesthetics can enhance traditional practices.