Carl Malmsten "Samspel" Sofa for AB Record , Sweden 1950s






















Carl Malmsten "Samspel" Sofa for AB Record , Sweden 1950s
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This model “Samspel” sofa was first introduced at the exhibition at Röhsska Museet (the Swedish Museum of Design and Crafts) in Gothenburg in 1956. The model’s name means ‘interaction’ in Swedish, which refers to not only Carl Malmsten’s design philosophy, but also to mid-century Swedish society.
Samspel is an honest classic in Swedish design history, as comfortable as it is fastidious in the expression. Sweeping curves with an organic impression and outmost quality: these are the main characteristics that define this sofa. Even as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, accessible to a wide audience. The main curvature is on the top of the back and continues to the sides forming one, flowing line. The armrests have subtle, outward curving “wings” that enhance the open and welcoming impression. The organicity of the design is not broken by any heavy ornamentation, instead the tufted, symmetrically arranged buttons on the back and the luxurious wool blend upholstery are utilized to further highlight the shape of the sofa. The design is completed by tapered, solid wood legs with a dark colour that contrasts nicely with the light upholstery.
Although Carl Malmsten’s furniture was very much a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them equally up-to-date and loved today. This is especially true for Samspel, a much loved and coveted model that, after many years of rest, was put back into production by O.H Sjögren in 2016.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered in a premium wool blend 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:
61.02 in W x 31.49 in D x 35.03 in H; Seat height 15.74 in; Arm height 24.01 in
155 cm W x 80 cm D x 89 cm H; Seat height 40 cm; Arm height 61 cm
About the designer:
Carl Malmsten (December 7, 1888 – August 13, 1972) was a Swedish furniture designer, architect, and educator. Malmsten was born in Stockholm, Sweden. Malmsten's career took off when he won a competition in 1916 to design furniture for the Stockholm City Hall and shortly after, in 1917, he exhibited alongside well-known Swedish architects such as Gunnar Asplund and Uno Åhrén.
In the 1920s he was invited to furnish a room for the crown prince, Gustaf VI Adolf, and his wife Louise in Ulriksdal Palace. He was honoured with an inaugural Prince Eugen Medal for design in 1945. Already as a young designer in the early 20th century, Carl Malmsten advocated an artisanal furniture design based on local ingredients and traditions, available to a wide audience at a reasonable price.
Nature was Carl Malmsten's foremost teacher and source of inspiration. He conveyed his love of craftsmanship as a teacher in his own schools, at Olofskolan in Stockholm, Capellagården on Öland and the Carl Malmsten school on Lidingö, today a branch of Linköping University and one of the country's leading design colleges. As a debater, Malmsten stormed against functionalism, but in retrospect it can be seen that his ideas often coincided with the rational and frugal style ideals of function.
Malmsten has had a lasting influence on Swedish furniture design through the two schools he founded—the Carl Malmsten Furniture Studies (Carl Malmstensskolan), which has been a part of Linköping University since 2000, is situated on the island of Lidingö on the outskirts of Stockholm. Carl Malmsten spoke about the importance of tradition, craftsmanship and the nation. His furniture was in many ways a product of the thoughts and ideals of the time, they have a timeless quality that makes them just as relevant and loved today. ~H.
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Price category: 12,500 - 15,000 usd / eur
This beautiful Danish three-seater sofa features the recognizable touch of Danish Modernism: exquisite materials, craftsmanship, and an elegantly curved shape, because of which this type of sofa is often referred to as the “banana” or “boomerang” style.
The visual appearance of this sofa echoes Danish design and directs the eyes to the voluptuous body, that is the result of the exquisite craftsmanship. Many of the well-known Danish architects of the era felt the urge to try their hand at three-seater sofas, adhering to the period’s streamlined modernism. In combination with the unadorned styles of mid-century design, this sofa brings together the best attributes of the era. The rounded conical wood legs add an organic feel, while also matching the rounded profile of the sofa. The back legs differ from the front ones as they are tapered to reinforce the sofa’s stability. The masterful sense of proportions, the curved back and the soft upholstery guarantee functionality and comfort. While most curved sofas of the era feature tufting and other forms of decoration, this model is free from unnecessary ornamentation, resulting in a sleek, elegant and modern look. This sofa has been reupholstered in a premium light bouclé fabric, accentuating the stained wooden legs and the luxurious feel and look.
Derived from the French word meaning “curled” or “ringed,” bouclé provides a unique range of benefits; it is abundant in texture yet breathable. This durable fabric makes for an easy way to add instant texture and interest to any modern space, and despite its resurgence around 2020, is a timeless trend with longevity that will stand the test of time. Bouclé pairs incredibly well with curvilinear shapes as demonstrated by this sofa.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:
78.14 in W x 43.50 in D x 29.13 in H
200 cm W x 110,5 cm D x 74 cm H
About the Designer:
This Danish-made sofa reflects the core traditions and ideals of Danish design, while recalling the shapes of the Art Deco movement. What both movements valued highly is the highest level of craftsmanship and attention to details.
Mid-century pieces such as this early sofa were of great design, using fantastic wood like teak or beech. The mid-century was the heyday of the production by master craftsmen. Mid-century Danish design is world-famous for the partnership between designer and manufacturer, resulting in ground-breaking creations. The Danish design idiom was centred on warm woods, quality fabrics and gentle yet robust support for the spine - qualities that engender contentment and well-being, a defining characteristic of Danish culture. The “Great Danes” believed furniture should be shorn of aesthetic detail and be an amalgam of form and function.
A master cabinet-maker is not a carpenter, as this was a rare breed of craftsman who had to be recognized by the Danish government after several years of toiling at his craft, as well as having to ace gruelling design competitions before becoming a master cabinet-maker. Since Denmark was a special instance of tempered industrialization, it managed to preserve sound traditions and continue to safeguard values of craftsmanship, materiality and usability.
Today, Danish furniture is sought after by collectors for classic looks, storied designs and solid quality, works that are truly soulful and timeless. ~H.
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Price category: 9,000 - 12,500 usd / eur
This Danish cabinetmaker sofa comes from a moment in mid-20th-century Denmark when craftsmanship and comfort were treated with equal seriousness. Cabinetmakers played an important role in shaping the country’s design identity, working to produce furniture that balanced sculptural presence with daily usability. Their work often resulted in pieces with thoughtful proportions, careful joinery, and a level of detail that signaled true mastery. This sofa clearly reflects that tradition.
This mid-20th century piece carries the quiet confidence of an object made by hand, where every curve, and every seam has been shaped with intention. The sofa’s form is soft and inviting, defined by a long, gently scalloped backrest and a subtly rounded silhouette that seems to hold the sitter rather than merely support them. The deep, rhythmic tufting across the back introduces texture without overwhelming the form, creating a sense of movement that brings the whole piece to life. Its arms curve outward slightly, opening the composition. The upholstery, a warm and tactile fabric in an earthy tone, enhances the sense of comfort, allowing the light to move delicately across its surface. Below, the wooden legs ground the piece and ensure sturdiness. Their clean lines and warm tone balance the softness above. From every angle, this piece reveals the quality work of its cabinetmaker, combining a sensitivity to form, proportion and material.
As a whole, this sofa carries a calm, understated beauty that fits seamlessly into both traditional and contemporary settings. It speaks to the Danish approach to living, where simplicity is enriched by craftsmanship and comfort. It is a reminder of why mid-century Danish design endures: its ability to balance refinement and warmth in a way that still resonates today.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Due to the nature and age of the materials, the item may have some marks, scratches, and discolouration. The sofa has recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
68.70 in W x 35.82 in D x 29.33 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Seat depth 21.25 in; Arm height 24 in
174.5 cm W x 91 cm D x 74.5 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Seat depth 54 cm; Arm height 61 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
This elegant three-seater sofa is a quintessential example of mid-century Italian design. Visually, it represents modernism by rejecting the common design choices of the past, such as heavy ornamentation and the prioritisation of form over function.
The design elements of this sofa - from the curved lines, to the dark wood and luxurious upholstery - not only create an intimate gathering place, but also define the look of a room whilst keeping the warmth and cosiness that is often associated with mid-century design. The piece aims to maximise comfort while putting an emphasis on elegance and refinement. With its high winged-backrest the sofa combines both form and function. Originally intended to shield the sitters from drafts, the wingback design also contributes to the stately silhouette. The understated tone of the upholstery allows the sculptural lines of the sofa to stand out, while still offering a neutral look that will integrate seamlessly into both contemporary and vintage interiors. The seat cushion is generously padded, providing a balance of comfort and support. Further adding to the stability are the tapered wooden legs that the piece rests on, the dark tone of the wood subtly elevates the design and reflects the minimalist aesthetic of the era. Free from unnecessary decoration, the aesthetic of this sofa is sleek, elegant, and modern. With its interesting shape, it is perfect to break the rigour of any space, keeping an elegant appearance elevated by the light upholstery.
Though many mid-century Italian designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today making outstanding Italian pieces like this sofa highly sought after.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
77.55 in W x 36.22 in D x 36.41 in H; Seat height 20.07 in; Seat depth 20.66 in; Arm height 22.44 in
197 cm W x 92 cm D x 92.5 cm H; Seat height 51 cm; Seat depth 52.5 cm; Arm height 57 cm
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The “Camaleonda” (Italian word play combining the words for ‘chameleon’ and ‘wave’) sofa is Mario Bellini’s contemporary classic. The playful, modular design offers endless options for the user, which also inspired the model’s name. Camaleonda has passed through five decades of design history as a true icon.
The elements that made this sofa a contemporary classic are the individual modules, their original cutting patterns and the polyurethane padding that forms the characteristic capitonné (a style of upholstery in which the material is drawn in at intervals) design. The four separate segments of this “Camaleonda” were manufactured with the innovative system of cables, hooks, and rings created by Bellini in 1970, which defines the characteristic look and modularity. The fundamental characteristic of Camaleonda is specifically this unlimited modularity, a geometric pattern that allows each element to become an enormous pixel through which to define your home environment. The four modules’ versatility and the attached tie-rods and rings make it possible to create custom forms. Furthermore, the modules can be unhooked and recombined at will, allowing the sofa to adapt to an evolving taste and needs. A concept which is dear to Mario Bellini: “Of all the objects I have designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom. There are infinite numbers of possible configurations.”
The modules of this sofa defined the aesthetics of an entire era of interior design, and are constantly featured in most international design. Considering the inherently modern and innovative design, this shall comes as no surprise.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The four modules are upholstered in a brown 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:
Large segments:
147.63 in W x 37.79 in D x 26.37 in H; Seat height 15.35 in; Arm height 19.68 in
375 cm W x 96 cm D x 67 cm H; Seat height 39 cm; Arm height 50 cm
Literature:
Domus n. 523, giugno 1973, pubblicità; G. Gramigna, Repertorio del design italiano 1950 - 1980, Milano 1985, p. 341.
About the designer:
Mario Bellini (born February 1, 1935, Milan) is an internationally renowned Italian architect and designer. He received the Golden Compass Award eight times and the Medaglia d’Oro, that was conferred on him by the President of the Italian Republic. The MoMA in New York already dedicated a personal retrospective exhibition to him in 1987. At the time the museum already included 25 of his works in its permanent collection, including a remarkable set of Olivetti machines as well as the furniture for B&B and Cassina.
He graduated from the Milan Polytechnic - Faculty of Architecture in 1959 and began working as an architect himself in the early 1960s. Like many other Italian architects, his activities range from architecture and urban planning to product and furniture design.
His career as a product and furniture designer began in 1963, and from 1963 to 1991 he was chief design consultant for Olivetti. For many years he designed furnishing products and systems for B&B Italia and Cassina, TV sets for Brionvega, and hi-fi systems, headphones and electric organs for Yamaha. Bellini was also the editor of Domus magazine between 1985 and 1991.
Since the 1980s, Bellini has been dedicating himself to architecture almost exclusively, designing a wide range of buildings all around the world, including the Portello Trade Fair district in Milan, the Tokyo Design Centre in Japan, the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, the Deutsche Bank Headquarters in Frankfurt, and the Department of Islamic Art at the Louvre in Paris to just name a few. In 2015 the Milan Triennale awarded him the Gold Medal for his career in architecture and in 2017 dedicated a retrospective exhibition to him. Contemporary Italian design has been synonymous with Mario Bellini’s name ever since the 1960s. ~H.
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The iconic “Soriana” three-seater 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 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 three 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 dark leather 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.
Condition:
In very good condition. The sofa is upholstered in premium leather. 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:
96.06 in W x 35.43 in D x 32.67 in H; Seat Height 21.65 in
244 cm W x 90 cm D x 83 cm H; Seat height 55 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: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
A desire for functionalism went hand in hand with understatement, refinement, and elegance. The Danish mid-century furniture designer was concerned with graceful proportions and restrained, harmonious ornament while reinstating the ideals of fine craftsmanship. He desired sleekness. He revered the maxim “form follows function.”
This spectacular daybed is essentially a simple, refined design standing on solid wood legs. What makes it stand out is its opulent upholstery. Yak hide provides warmth, and wherever they are placed, they provide an attractive Nordic look. Renowned for its decadent thickness and length, this material has been the accessory of choice for modernist architects and designers throughout the 1950s. Today they are perfect for creating the mid-century look in any space. This daybed - unlike sofa beds - can be easily placed and used as a bench in large entryways, next to windows, or at the foot of a bed thanks to its functionality. Thanks to its visual qualities, mainly the yak hair’s lush texture and colour, this infinitely cosy daybed can also function as a kind of sculpture to break the mostly straight lines of any minimalistic space.
Characterized by functionality, simplicity and clean lines, Danish design is all about harmony. Here, the pairing of the materials creates this balance as the understated wooden structure complements and supports the extravagant yak hide. Danish design also left much room for individuality thanks to which this daybed is one of a kind with its stylish edge.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The legs are a later replacement. This daybed has been reupholstered recently in premium yak hide. 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:
74.8 in W x 29.13 in D x 17.32 in H
190 cm W x 74 cm D x 44 cm H
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Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The iconic “Soriana” three-seater 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 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 three 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 dark fabric creates the nowadays especially coveted post-modern look. For all its casual overtures, this sofa model remains a statement piece — a true icon of contemporary, or just simply, 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.
Condition:
In very good condition. The sofa is upholstered in premium grey 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:
98.81 in W x 39.76 in D x 26.96 in H; Seat Height 14.96 in
251 cm W x 101 cm D x 68.5 cm H; Seat height 38 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The “Camaleonda” (Italian word play on ‘chameleon’ and ‘wave’) sofa is Mario Bellini’s contemporary classic. The playful, modular design offers endless options for the user, which also inspired the model’s name. Camaleonda has passed through five decades of design history as a true icon.
The modules of the sofa defined the aesthetics of an entire era of interior design, and are constantly featured in most international design. The elements that have made this sofa a contemporary classic are the individual modules, their original cutting patterns and the polyurethane padding that forms the characteristic capitonné (a style of upholstery in which the material is drawn in at intervals) design. The four separate segments of this “Camaleonda” were manufactured with the innovative system of cables, hooks and rings created by Bellini in 1970, which defines the characteristic look and modularity.
The fundamental characteristic of Camaleonda is its unlimited modularity, a geometric pattern that allows each element to become an enormous pixel through which to define your home environment. The four modules’ versatility and the attached tie-rods and rings make it possible to create custom forms. Furthermore, the modules can be unhooked and recombined at will, allowing the sofa to adapt to an evolving taste and needs. A concept which is dear to Mario Bellini: “Of all the objects I have designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom. There are infinite numbers of possible configurations.”
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The four modules have their original dark brown upholstery in good condition. Fabric has small traces of wear, with uneven fading. Please reach out to us for reupholstery possibilities.
Dimensions:
Big segment:
37.40 in W x 37.40 in D x 27.55 in H (with back)
95 cm W x 95 cm D x 70 cm H (with back)
Small segment:
37.80 in W x 26 in D x 15.75 in H
96 cm W x 66 cm D x 40 cm H
Literature:
Domus n. 523, giugno 1973, pubblicità; G. Gramigna, Repertorio del design italiano 1950 - 1980, Milano 1985, p. 341.
About the designer:
Mario Bellini (born February 1, 1935, Milan) is an internationally renowned Italian architect and designer. He received the Golden Compass Award eight times and the Medaglia d’Oro, that was conferred on him by the President of the Italian Republic. The MoMA in New York already dedicated a personal retrospective exhibition to him in 1987. At the time the museum already included 25 of his works in its permanent collection, including a remarkable set of Olivetti machines as well as the furniture for B&B and Cassina.
He graduated from the Milan Polytechnic - Faculty of Architecture in 1959 and began working as an architect himself in the early 1960s. Like many other Italian architects, his activities range from architecture and urban planning to product and furniture design.
His career as a product and furniture designer began in 1963, and from 1963 to 1991 he was chief design consultant for Olivetti. For many years he designed furnishing products and systems for B&B Italia and Cassina, TV sets for Brionvega, and hi-fi systems, headphones and electric organs for Yamaha. Bellini was also the editor of Domus magazine between 1985 and 1991.
Since the 1980s, Bellini has been dedicating himself to architecture almost exclusively, designing a wide range of buildings all around the world, including the Portello Trade Fair district in Milan, the Tokyo Design Centre in Japan, the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, the Deutsche Bank Headquarters in Frankfurt, and the Department of Islamic Art at the Louvre in Paris to just name a few. In 2015 the Milan Triennale awarded him the Gold Medal for his career in architecture and in 2017 dedicated a retrospective exhibition to him. Contemporary Italian design has been synonymous with Mario Bellini’s name ever since the 1960s. ~H.
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Italian mid-century furniture and interior design is known for its elegantly organic forms. The era’s seating models - including this sofa - were created to highlight the spirit of rebirth of post-war furniture design characterized by clean lines and a free spirit.
Similarly to Joseph-André Motte’s designs, this individualistic sofa reflects the mid-century Italian furniture style that was defined by unique solutions, perfect execution, and exclusivity. This delightfully eccentric model is quite simplistic in its design, featuring a combination of a round, shell-like body and slender, tapered metal legs. The rotund body embraces the sitter comfortably with its sloping, pointy armrests, which creates a cosy feel and look. The angular look is artistic and stylish, and establishes the unmistakeable Italian design impression. The pointed arms and metal legs break the round lines that characterize the design and add just enough edge. The cushion, nested into the sofa, follows the smooth and cosy aesthetic. The simple but effective shape is further supported by the light upholstery that is elegantly restrained while having enough textural variety to enhance the round forms. The sofa is mounted on tapered metal legs that offer great contrast to the round body and its upholstery. The polished and patinated look stands out beautifully against the upholstery and emphasizes the slim shape ending in small ball feet.
Though many mid-century Italian designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe. The appreciation for their contribution is still growing today making outstanding Italian pieces like this artistic sofa highly sought after.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The metal legs have beautiful patina. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium 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:
57.08 in W x 29.13 in D x 36.61 in H; Seat height 16.14 in; Arm height 23.62 in
145 cm W x 74 cm D x 93 cm H; Seat height 41 cm; Arm height 60 cm
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 20,000 - 30,000 usd / eur
The “Soriana” three-seat bouclé 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 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 three front metal clamps by which all soft curves and loose 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 bouclé creates the 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.
Condition:
In very good condition. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium bouclé 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:
99.60 in W x 38.58 in D x 24.80 in H; Seat Height 15.15 in
253 cm W x 98 cm D x 63 cm H; Seat Height: 38.5 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.
REQUEST PRICE HERE
Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Though mid-century Italian designers may not have the name recognition as some of their Scandinavian and American counterparts, they were integral to developing a modern aesthetic in Europe.
At first, most Italian designers found it challenging to balance modern creativity and classical elegance, but as this sofa demonstrates, they eventually found the recipe for the perfect result. Like their international counterparts, Italian designers prized the marriage of form and function, visible in the curved body, seat cushion, and tapered legs. Curved sofas are in general considered statement pieces, for reasons that are eminently present in this three-seater sofa: a generous rounded body and materials of the highest quality, and of course the revered Italian craftsmanship. With its curved arms and back, this sofa is perfect to break the rigour of any space, keeping the elegant appearance. The round edges are further accentuated by the single line of tufted buttons that sink into the textured, luxurious upholstery with an elegant light colour. The tapered, stained wood legs have a beautiful colour and grain, injecting the organic wood material to the design. The back legs are lightly splayed to provide perfect stability to the structure.
Mid-century modern designs - like this sofa - are simple, clean, and make use of authentic materials. These designs are quite shorn of ornamentation of any form, assigning this role to the visual and material quality instead.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has been reupholstered recently in a premium 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:
80.11 in W x 36.22 in D x 32.48 in H; Seat height 14.17 in; Arm height 21.25 in
203.5 cm W x 92 cm D x 82.5 cm H; Seat height 36 cm; Arm height 54 cm
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Price category: 7,500 - 10,000 usd / eur
Throughout the 20th century, Italian design managed to distinguish itself. The 1960s was a boom time in Italy especially, a decade of mass production and innovation that signaled the end of the post-war rebuilding programme. Still, one off designs and the overflow of creativity were just as present, giving birth to outstanding pieces such as this modular “Superonda” sofa.
The “Superonda” sofa, designed in 1967 by the radical Florentine design collective Archizoom Associati, and produced for Poltronova, is a pioneering piece that challenged the conventions of traditional furniture design. The Superonda blurs the line between object and artwork, inviting interaction rather than passive use. It can serve as a sofa, a bed, or a chaise, making it as versatile as it is visually striking. Composed of two interlocking, elements, the Superonda departs from the conventional frames, legs, and backs, instead offering a sculptural, modular form that can be arranged in multiple ways. Its bold, wave-like silhouette reflects the playfulness of the Italian Radical Design movement, a rebellion against bourgeois taste and rigid functionalism.
Produced by Poltronova, a manufacturer known for championing avant-garde Italian design, the Superonda remains an unforgettable piece in design history. Its enduring relevance lies in its conceptual boldness, embodying the ideals of a generation that sought to redefine the relationship between people and their environments. Today, the Superonda stands not only as a collectible design icon but as a symbol of radical creativity and the power of design to question societal norms.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The sofa has recently been reupholstered in a premium fabric. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
94.88 in W x 44.88 in D x 15.74 in H
241 cm W x 114 cm D X 40 cm H