Design Classics

Design Classics gathers re-editions of 20th-century pieces that matter to the story of design, made again with care and, where the designers are gone, in the spirit of their work. Here you’ll find Man Ray’s Kuen Surface, the mathematical form he photographed in Paris and painted in 1948, cast in 925 sterling silver as cufflinks, earrings and a pendant; and Riki Watanabe’s Chambre mobile, three copper and teak elements first hung above the main bar of Tokyo’s Shinbashi Dai-ichi Hotel and reissued in Japan by Metrocs.

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The designers

Man Ray — The American artist (born Emmanuel Radnitzky) who became the leading figure of Dada and Surrealism. In 1936 he photographed the mathematical models of the Institut Henri Poincaré in Paris for Cahiers d’Art.

Riki Watanabe (1911–2013) — A founder of Japanese modern design. He studied woodcraft in Tokyo, worked under Bruno Taut and opened his own design office in 1949; copper was his favorite material.

Frequently asked questions

What is in the Design Classics collection?

Re-editions of 20th-century icons: Man Ray’s Kuen Surface jewelry in sterling silver and Riki Watanabe’s Chambre copper and teak mobile.

Where are the Design Classics pieces made?

The Kuen Surface jewelry is made in the United States; the Chambre mobile is made in Japan by Metrocs.

Are the Kuen Surface pieces solid silver?

Yes, all three are 925 sterling silver.

Which Design Classics piece makes the best gift? (our advice)

The Kuen Surface cufflinks or pendant for an art lover; the Chambre mobile for a new home or office.

How fast do Design Classics pieces ship?

In-stock pieces ship in 2–3 business days, free by ground to the 48 contiguous states on orders over $100.

Trade pricing for design professionals

Interior designers, architects and contractors can apply to the MetropolitanDecor Trade Program for trade pricing on Design Classics and the rest of our catalog; our trade team reviews every application personally, usually within one business day.