Malawi Chair - Black

The Malawi Chair in striking matt black

All the sculptural elegance of the classic Malawi chair, dipped in a deep matt black that turns it into a graphic, contemporary statement — comfortable, characterful and entirely handmade.

Handmade by skilled artisans

Malawi chairs are handwoven from rattan strips worked into intricate patterns along the sides and seat. Rather than the glue or nails common in European furniture, makers secure every strip with traditional knots, and shape the signature curved barrel back using spare parts from cars and bicycles as temporary guides. Each chair takes an artisan around 10 days to complete.

Why you'll love it

• Entirely handwoven — no glue or nails, just traditional knotwork
• A sculptural statement piece that's genuinely comfortable
• Supports skilled artisan communities in Malawi
• Bold, graphic black that anchors a modern scheme

Each one is unique

As these are bespoke and handmade by several different groups of artisans, every chair varies very slightly. Occasionally one may have a small wobble — easily corrected with stick-on felt pads under the legs.

Dimensions: L 70 x D 45 x H 78cm — Seat height 40cm

Care: Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, which can cause dark staining on the rattan. If marks appear, dissolve a little oxalic acid (available from most hardware stores) in water and brush over the affected area to restore it.

Styling: A standout feature chair, a dramatic dining seat, or paired with greenery and warm timber for contrast.