Antonin willow sofa without cushion

The Antonin willow sofa

The Antonin sofa is the archetypal wicker sofa: a large diameter willow structure, a seat made of willow nets, and a typical "openwork" weaving of the back. The economy of material (100% willow + a few nails) and the record lightness of this seat (5 kg, it can be moved with one hand...), are allowed by the natural robustness of willow. The Antonin sofa is ideal for relaxing, chatting over a drink, reading or watching TV, with the backrest sloping backwards to allow a relaxed position. The seat height of 42 cm is high enough to allow seniors to sit and stand without difficulty, and it allows two people to sit comfortably. Matches the Colette and Mélina willow tables.

Willow, rattan, what's the difference?

Rattan is a tropical plant (85% comes from Indonesia) related to the palm family that produces a "cane" that is easy to bend (with steam). Rattan allows for tighter curves and finer weaves than willow, but being less rigid, it requires a heavier frame.

Wllow grows easily throughout Europe. It does not require any plant protection products or fertilisers. The harvest is completely regenerated each year, so it is a very easily renewable resource. Peeled hot ("buff" willow with natural copper tones) or cold ("white" willow), it is most often presented untreated, the willow fibre leaving its smooth and satiny surface to appear "au naturel".

Characteristics and options

Overall dimensions: height 80 x width 102 x length 67, seat at 42cm, armrests at 63cm on the front, and at about 66cm halfway up the ramp. Seat depth 41 cm. Weight 5 kg. Structure, netting, arches, weaving and binding: natural buff willow (no varnish or stain). European manufacture. The Antonin wicker sofa is sold here without, but it is also available with its matching cushion in several fabric variants.

A wicker seat can be used in a conservatory, a winter garden, or outdoors in good weather and occasionally, but it cannot be considered as garden furniture. It is not made to resist to bad weather, humidity, frost, or too long exposure to the sun. Also, the Antonin sofa is hand-woven. Dimensional differences of 1 to 2 cm can be observed, no two are exactly the same.

Maintenance: dust with a damp cloth, avoid commercial cleaning products. In case of heavy soiling, clean with a sponge and soap.