Vitra Eames Elephant by Charles & Ray Eames - Large
Best sculptural accent for design-conscious homes and playful children's spaces.
The Eames Elephant, a playful and iconic design by Charles and Ray Eames, brings a touch of whimsy to any space. Originally conceived in 1945, this charming sculpture was initially a challenging prototype. Now available in serial production, it's crafted from durable plywood or recycled plastic, reflecting a commitment to both design heritage and sustainability. Its distinctive form and historical significance make it a delightful decorative object, perfect for adding personality to homes and children's rooms alike.
$155.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
2
/ 5998
#2 in Chairs
Price vs Category Average
-87%
Below average
Material
Plywood
/ Plywood
Who it's for
- Design enthusiasts seeking authentic mid-century modern statement pieces
- Parents needing durable furniture that withstands active daily play
- Families wanting versatile decor that transitions from nursery to living room
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for affordable children's room decor
- Urban dwellers living in compact apartments with limited floor space
- Collectors prioritizing premium materials like wood or leather over plastic
Performance breakdown
Design Heritage
An authentic piece of mid-century modern history for your home.
Material Durability
Robust construction ensures this piece withstands years of daily interaction.
Visual Impact
The sculptural form creates an immediate focal point in any room.
Sustainability Profile
Recycled plastic options align modern production with environmental responsibility.
Versatility
Equally effective as a playful toy or a sophisticated decorative object.
Craftsmanship Quality
Precision moulding reflects the high standards expected from Vitra manufacturing.
Key Specs
Material
Plywood
Material
Recycled plastic (Eames Elephant RE)
Designer
Charles & Ray Eames
Year of Design
1945
Production
Serial production since 2017
Technique
Moulding
Features
- Iconic design by Charles & Ray Eames
- Playful elephant form
- Durable construction
- Available in recycled plastic
- Suitable for indoor use
- Historical design significance
- Decorative accent piece
- Adds personality to spaces
What customers say
The Vitra Eames Elephant consistently garners extremely high praise, positioning it as a beloved design classic rather than just a simple decorative item. Customers view this piece as a significant investment in design heritage, appreciating the faithful execution of Charles and Ray Eames' original vision by Vitra. The sentiment centers heavily on the exceptional quality and craftsmanship; reviewers frequently highlight the robust, durable material (high-grade dyed polypropylene) and the flawless finish, noting that it feels substantial and built to last generations. Key positive points include its whimsical yet sophisticated aesthetic, making it a perfect focal point in both adult living spaces and high-end nurseries. Buyers often describe the purchase as fulfilling a long-held desire, emphasizing the joy and nostalgia the piece brings. While the price point is acknowledged as high, the overwhelming consensus among design enthusiasts is that the elephant represents excellent value for money in the context of authentic, collectible design and heirloom quality. Minor critiques are extremely rare, usually limited to initial hesitation over the cost, which is quickly overcome once the product is received and its superior quality is experienced firsthand. The overall feeling is one of deep satisfaction and pride in owning a piece of design history.
Know before you buy
While the Eames Elephant is structurally robust, it is primarily designed as a decorative sculpture or an iconic design object. It is not intended for use as a stool or a piece of children's furniture.
The plywood version offers a classic, warm aesthetic that highlights the Eames' original material experiments, while the recycled plastic version—known as the Eames Elephant RE—is more durable for high-traffic areas and reflects a modern commitment to sustainability.
The Eames Elephant is designed specifically for indoor use. Exposure to direct sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperature fluctuations can damage the finish of the plywood or the integrity of the plastic.
For both the plywood and recycled plastic versions, simply wipe the surface with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive sponges, as these can scratch or dull the finish.
Yes, this is an authentic piece produced by Vitra, which holds the exclusive rights to manufacture Charles and Ray Eames designs in Europe and the Middle East. Each piece is crafted to the designers' original specifications.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.