![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2009/04/binta_02_sq2.jpg)
Binta armchair by Philippe Bestenheider for Moroso
Milan 09: Binta, an Africa-inspired armchair by Swiss designer Philippe Bestenheider, is part of the new Moroso collection unveiled at the Salone Internazionale del Mobile in Milan this week.
![binta_02_sq.jpg](http://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2009/04/binta_02_sq.jpg)
The chair's form is based on African wood carvings and the upholstery is based on Senegalese patchwork fabrics.
![binta_01.jpg](http://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2009/04/binta_01.jpg)
Here's a statement from Bestenheider:
--
BINTA ARMCHAIR
“Binta was inspired by Africa. Its sculptural shape evokes African wood carvings, but its polyurethane rubber forms are softer. Like a baobab tree, Binta anchors itself firmly to the ground with thick, trunk-like feet whose elegant forms bring to mind the weighty baobab.
![binta_03.jpg](http://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2009/04/binta_03.jpg)
Its upholstery is a patchwork of Wax fabrics, the traditional textiles worn by African women. Contrasting patterns and colours emphasise the armchair’s shape, enveloping and moulding its silhouette.
![binta_02.jpg](http://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2009/04/binta_02.jpg)
The brash, bright colour contrasts are in the tradition of African textiles and colour schemes; they conjure up the elegant tailoring of women’s clothes as if Binda were a Senegalese lady about to wear and enhance the hot colours of Africa”.
Philippe Bestenheider