The Sunball Chair is an extremely rare design classic and a true collector's item, of which only about 50 examples were built between 1969 and 1971. This original design by Günter Ferdinand Ris and Herbert Selldorf for Rosenthal undoubtedly belongs among the most spectacular and futuristic objects from the Space Age period.
The Sunball is constructed from two hemispherical shells that can be opened, rotated, and locked in various positions. This creates a private cocoon of tranquility and privacy. When fully closed, the spherical structure offers protection against wind and rain, making it not only an exceptional indoor lounge object but also a perfect outdoor design statement . Furthermore, thanks to the 360-degree rotating base, you can effortlessly follow the sunlight throughout the day.
This specific example is particularly exceptional. The chair features a vibrant yellow exterior and is equipped with the original built-in lighting and radio , both luxurious and extremely rare options at the time. The interior has been carefully reupholstered in a beautiful blue velour fabric , which harmonizes perfectly with the sunny exterior and gives the whole a fresh, stylish, and distinctive appearance.
The Sunball Chair has just been fully restored . The electrical wiring was renewed, a new 12V outdoor transformer was installed, and the chair received a new coat of paint and upholstery in accordance with the original authentic color scheme and finish from 1968. This example is therefore fully ready for its new user once again. You won't find one like this easily.
What makes this chair so special is not only its form, but also its vision. Inspired by the shape of an astronaut's helmet , the Sunball perfectly embodies the optimistic future thinking of the late sixties. It is a design in which architecture, technology, comfort, and fantasy fully merge.
The Sunball was produced for only three years as part of the exclusive furniture collection of Rosenthal AG in Espelkamp . This makes this chair not only exceptionally rare today, but also highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of iconic Space Age design.
A rare first edition, fully restored and ready to shine in a high-end interior or as an outdoor object.