Afra and Tobia Scarpa "Soriana" Two-Seater Sofa in Velour, Italy 1969 (sold)
Afra and Tobia Scarpa "Soriana" Two-Seater Sofa in Velour, Italy 1969 (sold)
The iconic “Soriana” sofa was designed by the Italian designer duo, Afra and Tobia Scarpa in 1969. Besides its innovative manufacturing, visually, Soriana brings sophisticated and leisurely comfort to any home.
This post-modern two-seater sofa was manufactured by Cassina as part of the eponymous line that reached the coveted ‘iconic’ title soon after its launch. The award-winning design features two front metal clamps by which all soft curves and loose leather upholstery are held together, a particularly original detail that creates a sense of barely contained softness. The Soriana collection was meant to express beauty and comfort by using a whole bundle of fabric held by chrome-plated steel clamps. The defining upholstered body features tufted buttons all over it, which visually sections the sofa, while also adding depth to accentuate the softness. The interesting pairing of the metal clamps with the luxurious velour upholstery creates the nowadays especially coveted post-modern look. For all its casual overtures, this sofa model remains a statement piece — an icon of contemporary design
The “Soriana Chair” was the first piece designed in the collection, and for its design in 1970, it won the Compasso d'Oro, one of the most important design awards of that time. The design has been reissued by Cassina recently, with the aim of recovering and safeguarding the works of Afra and Tobia Scarpa.
SOLD
Condition:
In very good condition. The sofa has been newly upholstered in a premium velour fabric. Each of our items can be re-upholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
66.14 in W x 39.37 in D x 26.37 in H; Seat Height 14.56 in
168 cm W x 100 cm x D x 67 cm H; Seat height 37 cm
Literature:
G. Gramigna, Repertorio del Design Italiano 1950-2000 per l’Arredamento Domestico. Turin: Allemandi 2003, p. 318
G. Bosoni, Made in Cassina. Milan: Skira, 2008, pp. 200-201.
About the designers:
Afra and Tobia Scarpa graduated at the Istituto Universitario di Architettura in Venice and formed one of the most successful and known professional associations. Their works can be found in museums across the USA and Europe such as the MoMA and the Louvre. Their designs like the Soriana sofa exhibit a decidedly modernist aesthetic, prioritizing pared-back elegance and comfort. At the same time, the Scarpas are admired for the ease with which their designs complement both classical and cutting-edge interiors.
The Soriana was created for the Italian manufacturing company Cassina, which is often credited with introducing industrial design to Italy and has built an international reputation for collaborating with some of the world’s most respected designers, including Afra and Tobia Scarpa.
The husband-and-wife duo’s products played an important role in the history of Italian Design and are thriving in the Mid-Century market. The Soriana sofa is a collectors’ piece and part of the history of Italian design destined to increase in value with the time. A piece of true Italian Modernism. ~H.
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Price category: 1,000 - 2,500 usd / eur
Rach Finazzi, an Italian designer active from the late 20th century, is recognised for a distinctive approach to furniture-making that merges geometric structures with unique materials. Finazzi’s work often explores unconventional forms and material contrasts, from glass to metal and wood, resulting in pieces that command attention both as functional furniture and as sculptural statements.
This geometric dining chair is a quintessential example of Finazzi’s design ethos, the chair is characterised by a striking interplay between an angular metal framework, natural wood, and plush sheepskin. The chair rests on slender, black metal legs that intersect to create a dynamic, sculptural base, flowing into the arms. The composition feels both visually light and structurally stable. Adding to the design, the backrest is crafted from solid wood in a dramatically tapered, triangular form. The back introduces an architectural element that draws the eye upward, establishing a visual dialogue between the angular metal structure and the natural wood grain. To fully drive in the textural juxtaposition, the seat is upholstered in longhair sheepskin, adding a warm, inviting texture that contrasts beautifully with the cool, industrial feel of the metal frame and the earthy wooden backrest.
More than just seating, this dining chair functions as a sculptural piece that showcases Finazzi’s ability to harmonise disparate materials and forms. The combination of materials creates a compelling visual and tactile experience, showcasing the skill and creativity of Italian craftsmanship. Whether arranged around a dining table with other pieces or displayed as a standalone accent piece, the chair encapsulates a bold design language, merging functionality with a strong artistic presence.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The item has recently been reconditioned. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have marks, scratches, and discolouration. The seat has been reupholstered recently in a premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
19.29 in W x 22.04 in D x 44.68 in H; Seat height 19.68 in; Seat depth 20.47 in; Arm height 24.40 in
49 cm W x 56 cm D x 113.5 cm H; Seat height 50 cm; Seat depth 52 cm; Arm height 62 cm