Description:



Two Japanese Women at Pierre Koenig's, Case Study House #21
Oil on Canvas
Initialed "AZ" l.r. women standing next to a Porsche.

Offered here is a rare opportunity to acquire a painting of a seminal work of mid-century modern architecture: Pierre Koenig's Case Study House #21, commonly known as the Bailey House. Completed in 1958, this residence is one of the most distinguished designs from the Case Study House program, a landmark initiative organized by Arts & Architecture magazine to showcase innovative and affordable housing solutions for postwar America.

Designed by Pierre Koenig, a leading figure in modernist architecture, the Bailey House was conceived with a minimalist approach that prioritized functionality, light, and an unparalleled connection to nature. The structure is a breathtaking example of steel, glass, and wood working in harmony, which reflects Koenig's mastery in blending architectural form with the natural landscape.

The Bailey House is defined by its bold use of a steel frame and expansive glass walls, allowing for an abundance of natural light to permeate the open-concept interior. The design emphasizes the indoor-outdoor living experience, a hallmark of Southern California's architectural identity. Koenig's deft integration of the house into its surroundings ensures that residents enjoy both privacy and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

The dwelling is composed of a spacious open living area that seamlessly flows into the exterior terrace, fostering a sense of openness and continuity with nature. The minimalist interior boasts clean lines, functional spaces, and a carefully curated material palette that includes natural wood and polished concrete. These elements, paired with strategic window placements, emphasize transparency and lightness, encouraging a dynamic interaction between the interior and its surroundings.

One of the standout features of Case Study House #21 is its cantilevered design, which creates the sensation that the house floats above the hillside. This dramatic design choice, paired with its flat roof and glass-walled façade, reinforces the sleek, modern aesthetic that was central to Koenig's vision.

The Bailey House also showcases Koenig's signature approach to spatial planning, creating a home that feels expansive while using space efficiently. The design offers an ideal blend of intimate living areas and open spaces for socializing and entertaining, illustrating the architect's keen understanding of how people live and interact within their homes.

Case Study House #21 is not just an architectural masterpiece—it is a representation of the optimism and progressive spirit of postwar America. The home quickly became an icon of mid-century modern design, celebrated for its innovative use of materials and its departure from traditional architectural forms. It was captured in many prominent architectural publications and photographs, further cementing its legacy in the history of American design.

Additionally, the home holds a significant place in the history of the Case Study House program, which introduced the idea of modern homes that were not only functional but also aesthetically forward-thinking, contributing to the changing landscape of residential architecture during the mid-20th century.

Provenance: The Estate of Susan Chalom, New York, NY

  • Dimensions: 51 x 68 1/2 in. (129.5 x 174 cm.)
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas

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