There have been plenteous schizophrenic incarnations of the mystical Flying carpet (from the sublime to the surreal). However the East Meets West Sofa is strikingly distinguishable and establishes how certain indigenous fables still command modern patronage. Experimental yet constant, the sofa emanates a magical aura and immaculately blends cultures and influences.

East Meets West Sofa. Designed by Tonio de Roover.

Conceptualized by Belgian designer Tonio de Roover, the East Meets West sofa is an attempt to recreate the drama of the Arabian Nights and the legendary flying carpet featured in it. Tapping into age-old Persian parables, the sofa comes alive through a melee of folklore, intricate patterns and utmost functionality. While the contemporary interpretation may not transport you to a different place, it will however act as a tool to "sit, talk, or read."

The East Meets West Sofa measures 950 mm in height and 1600 mm in breath. Weighing a hefty 41kgs, the sofa makes a sculptural presence , certainly not satisfied merely as a utility object. According to the designer, his creation also symbolizes "a flying carpet that wants to rise from the earth" and the meeting of the Western and Eastern minds. While I am not sure if he is able to achieve this cross-cultural pollination fully, it does manage to show signs of cultural hybridization.

The alluring East Meets West Sofa commemorates the allegorical era of chivalrous heroes, beautiful princesses, and swashbuckling folklores. Roover with his captivating creation not only fuels one imagination, but also flaunts the unabashed grandeur of the fascinating Persian Mythology to a more Western mindset.

Says Tonio de Roover: "It is reminiscent of the 'tales of a thousand and One Nights', thus heralding a connection with non-Western cultures. The simplicity of the shape and the materials used to emphasise this image."