BERNHARD WILLHELM'S PUNKTE-PONTE

Bernhard Willhelm, German fashion designer now headquartered in Paris, is famous for his expressive avant-garde clothing and his distinct, iconic patterns, colors and cuts. For e15 Willhelm modified the solid oak table TA01 Ponte, originally designed by Philipp Mainzer, with one of the patterns from his current collection. The polka dot pattern is screen printed on the raw oak, using 7 different shades. The result creates an inspiring image contrasting reduced furniture design with elements of modern fashion. 

Since Jil Sander conquered the fashion world with her minimal approach Bernard Willhelm is the first German fashion designer, who gained international acclaim. Even Susy Menkes, the respected fashion critic from the International Herald Tribune, regularly promotes his work. Since he established his own label together with Jutta Kraus in 1999 he has developed into a prototype of a new avant-garde. Willhelm's designs are inspired by the German clothing industry, fashion culture, and traditional crafts, which he reiterates and deconstructs in his work. Another important part of Willhelm’s work are patterns. In many cases the inspirations for his good-mood-patterns are recycled from standard products. The result is clothing that pushes the limits of what can be worn and invents new body images: Fashion with a distinct eye for art.

For e15 Willhelm modified the solid oak table TA01 Ponte, originally designed by Philipp Mainzer, with one of the patterns from his current collection. The polka dot pattern is screen printed on the raw oak, using 7 different shades. The result creates an inspiring image contrasting reduced furniture design with elements of modern fashion.

The "Willhelm Table" first was shown as part of the exhibition "Moderne Mode" at the Ursula Blickle Foundation in Kraichtal, Germany. From November 2003 this table will be available in a limited edition of 50 pieces. Each table (length 2000mm, width 920mm, height 750mm, oiled finish) will be signed and numbered, and will retail at a price of EURO 5000 (excluding VAT). A real collector’s item!