The Herman Miller Collection (1955)

First edition ring-binder catalog of the Herman Miller Collection, showcasing the designs of Charles (and Ray) Eames and George Nelson (and Associates). Published in 1955 by Herman Miller, Inc, with an introduction by George Nelson. Oblong 4to (9.5” x 12”), tan cloth covered boards with screen-printed 3-color Herman Miller logo. Approximately 140 pages, plus 6 colored tabs and a 19-page price list dated April 1, 1956, divided into sections as follows: Storage; Sleeping; Dining; Seating; Occasional Pieces; and EOG (Executive Office Group). With b/w photographs, line drawings, and technical specifications. Eames designs include plywood tables, chairs, and screens; molded plastic chairs, wire chairs; plus the Surfboard Table and Compact Sofa. Nelson designs include the Basic Cabinet Series, Rosewood (thin-edge) Case Group, beds, benches, modular seating, desks, Chrome-base chaise, and miniature jewelry chests. Upholsted pieces are shown with Alexander Girard fabrics. Catalog design by George Nelson and Associates, with cover design by Irving Harper, layout by Harper and Carl Ramirez, and photography by John Stewart, Midori, Dale Rooks, Lionel Freedman, George Nelson, and Charles Eames. Minor rubbing and toning to boards with minor bumping to edges. A scarce and important document of mid-century American design history, seldom encountered in this condition.