20thC ITALIAN "MODEL 180" TABLE BY CARLO DE CARLI FOR SORMANI c.1971

DESCRIPTION

Discover the timeless elegance of the Model 180 table, a creation by the esteemed Carlo De Carli for Sormani, Italy, dating back to 1971. This exquisite piece boasts a striking white lacquer base, a testament to De Carli's penchant for harmonising form and function. The juxtaposition of the pristine lacquer against the rich rosewood top creates a captivating visual contrast, exemplifying the sophisticated design language characteristic of this iconic collaboration.

The table's design, marked by clean lines and a meticulous attention to detail, reflects both the ingenuity of Carlo De Carli and Sormani's commitment to crafting enduring pieces. The rosewood top not only adds warmth to the composition but also showcases the impeccable craftsmanship that defines Italian design.

Carlo De Carli (1910-1999) not only left an indelible mark on 20th-century design as an architect and designer but also distinguished himself as one of Italy's leading and highly esteemed professors. His profound impact extended beyond the realm of physical design, encompassing a fundamental influence on the theoretical reflections and ethical principles shaping an entire generation of architects. Graduating in architecture from the Politecnico di Milan in 1934, De Carli maintained a strong connection with the university throughout his illustrious career. Serving as the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture from 1965 to 1968 and teaching until 1986, he solidified his legacy as an influential academic figure.

A revered academic and prolific writer, De Carli's philosophy centred on the seamless integration of space, material, and the human body and gesture. With this ethos, he effectively fostered a dialogue between design, academia, and the craftsmanship world. His formative years included collaboration with the legendary architect and designer Gio Ponti, whose influence played a pivotal role in shaping De Carli's language and approach to design. Subsequently establishing his own studio, De Carli's designs gained widespread recognition, earning production by some of the most significant and innovative Italian design companies.

Established in 1961 by designer Luigi Sormani (1932-2017), the pioneering Italian furniture manufacturer Sormani revolutionized production techniques, moving away from traditional craftsmanship and hardwoods predominant in the 1950s. Opting for innovative materials like Rio Rosewood, lacquered wood, and later plastic and aluminium in the 1960s and '70s, Sormani embraced modernisation. The brand's debut collection, Fleeting by Studio ABC, unveiled at the 1961 Milan Furniture Fair, marked the introduction of one of the first modular wardrobe systems.

In 1966, Sormani ventured into thermoformed items, incorporating moulds inspired by the automobile industry, exemplified by Richard Neagle's Nike and Auriga armchairs. This period also saw Sormani's exploration of extruded aluminium with the Ellisse Collection (1967) by Claudio Salocchi. Expanding globally, Sormani found success in the US and Japanese markets. The 1970s brought a collaboration with architect-designer Gio Ponti, yielding vibrant, modular storage units. In the early 1980s, the establishment of an engineering division facilitated turnkey projects, spanning residential and contract engineering, restoration, and interior decoration.

Collaborating with esteemed Italian designers, such as Joe Colombo, Carlo De Carli, and Pierre Cardin, among others, Sormani's portfolio includes iconic pieces like Gianni Songia's GS 195 Daybed (1963) and Joe Colombo's Rotoliving Unit (1969). Recognised with awards for advertising campaigns and corporate excellence, Sormani's work is showcased in renowned museums worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the National Museum of Modern Art in Kyoto. Despite facing challenges, the legacy continues through Gloria, Luigi Sormani's daughter, who has undertaken the restoration and archival reclassification of the family's extensive collection.

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CONDITION

In very good vintage condition. Some minor crazing to the white lacquer foot. Please refer to photographs.

SIZE

Height: 75 cm // 29.53 inches
Width (Top Diameter): 124 cm // 48.82 inches
Depth (Base Diameter): 74 cm // 29.13 inches