Bidspirit auction | Michael Todd & Cinestage Seat

Michael Todd & Cinestage Seat Ends - These mid-century cast iron and wood theatre seat ends originate from Chicago's iconic Michael Todd and Cinestage Theatres on North Dearborn Street. Originally built in 1922 as the twin Harris and Selwyn playhouses by architects C. Howard Crane and H. Kenneth Franzheim, the venues were renovated in the mid-1950s by film producer Mike Todd to showcase pioneer 70mm widescreen cinema. Legendary modernist architect Bertrand Goldberg redesigned the interior, incorporating signature mid-century elements such as the heavily textured gold leaf motif panel featured on the smaller end piece. Constructed with heavy-duty cast metal bases featuring integrated floor mounting plates, the larger end displays a smooth faux-wood laminate inlay topped with a solid wood armrest back, while original production mold markings and vintage red and cream paint remain visible on the inner cast frames. Both pieces demonstrate typical age and wear from extended theatre use, including surface oxidation on the cast iron, paint loss, scuffs, and weathering to the wooden caps, while remaining structurally sound. H 23.5”, W 13.5”, D 2” / H 22.5”, W 12”, D 2”. Please see photos for condition.