UN Broken Chair

Broken Chair is a monumental sculpture in wood by the Swiss artist Daniel Berset, constructed by the carpenter Louis Genève. It is constructed of 5.5 tons of wood and is 12 metres (39 feet) high. This image has been around the world and is now regarded as one of the most iconic pieces of 21st century art.

It depicts a giant chair with a broken leg and stands across the street from the Palace of Nations, in Geneva. 

Broken Chair symbolizes the despair and dignity of armed violence victims. Its aim is to remind the obligation of states to protect and help victims. 

General Details

Created: 1997 

Size and weight: 12 meters and 5.5 tons

Material: Douglas Wood

Owner: Handicap International, Humanity & Inclusion

Project: Paul Vermeulen, co-founder of Handicap International Switzerland

Artist: Daniel Berset 

Carpenter: Louis Genève

Engineer: Thomas Büchi