Alu Group 'Ribbed' Ottoman Stool

Part of the Alu Group series, the Eames Alu Group Ribbed Ottoman Stool was generally designed to be used in conjunction with either the Alu Lounge Chair or Alu Recliner but it was made available to buy separately.

Using the same technology from the Alu chairs, the material was stretched between the frame and pressed to give that distinctive look and the Eames Alu Ottoman Stool perfectly matched the Lounger and Recliner from the series. It was always available separately with the theory that it was better to be offered individually to give the buyer the choice in terms of taste, comfort, space and or price depending on their needs.. This despite the fact that almost always the Ottoman appeared in ads alongside the Recliner or Lounger.

The Eames Alu Ottoman could also be utilized as a stylish stool, in environments such as waiting rooms, lounges, dressing and changing rooms. It will however always be generally recognized as part of a set with the rest of the group.

The Alu Ottoman only went through two generational developments in terms of the base changes. From the first edition with the contract pedestal base to the Universal base in the mid 60's and it remained always on the 4 leg version through the decades until present.

The Ottoman has been in continuous manufacture since it's market release in 1958 and has been available in the same fabric choices as those of the chairs in the series. From Saran to Naugahyde, Hopsack and the later Leather.

• There are copies of the Alu Group Ottoman out there but they do tend to be sold along with further copies of the Alu lounger.  A good look at the product in question should identify the authenticity.
• An authentic Ottoman will have always had a label or stamp. The earlier versions will be stamped into the metal with the patent pending or patent number. Later versions will have labels, both adhesive and textile once into the 2000's.
• Reproductions tend to use the cheaper Chrome plating as opposed to the Brushed Aluminum of the original, so if it appears to be too bright and too new, it most likely is.
• Reproductions all tend to use copies of the Universal bases and therefore those with Pedestal bases are generally good by default.
• Look for clear ageing in the product, tarnished metal work and clear use of the seating area. As reproductions permeate into the secondary market more over the years it will be more important to check for labeling and authenticity provenance.
• Until recent years the alu ottoman was available in either the Brushed Alu or what was termed Aubergine color, a near dark/grey tone.

• The usual furniture value test of oldest first is best does not necessarily apply to the Alu Group Ottoman. Yes whilst the older generations have naturally more collectible value, they were not made in the more desirable leather which came much later. This means that it is actually very difficult to determine. Those with leather and in great condition would usually command higher values before the age factor.
• Whichever fabric an ottoman is covered in ensure to check it over thoroughly. The nature of the fabric being machine stretched onto the frame actually makes it extremely difficult for owners and upholsterers to re-cover. Condition therefore is highly important when determining value. A re-work of an ottoman or indeed matching chair will make the project cost extremely high and the overall value low if condition requires it.
• The value of an Ottoman is greatly enhance if it forms part of a full set with an Alu Lounge chair or Recliner and especially if the condition is good enough that no additional work is required. Some of the early Naugahyde and later leather options are very desirable.
• The Ottoman has only had 2 base styles as opposed to the Alu chairs which have had 3. The 5 star Universal base was brought in during the mid 80's and was done so to provide additional stability for the chairs. The ottoman however did not require it as it's footprint was much smaller from the outset.