Overview
Exceptionally rare “Talete” coffee table designed by Cini Boeri for Arflex in the 1980s, featuring a substantial cherry wood structure and a contrasting black laminate tabletop.
Distinguished by its low architectural proportions, square silhouette, and four solid rectangular legs, this design expresses Boeri's minimalist approach through a bold yet remarkably restrained composition.
Description
The Talete coffee table is characterized by its strong geometric construction, where the tabletop and supporting structure form a visually unified architectural volume.
The broad square surface features a black laminate panel, precisely framed by warm-toned cherry wood. Four substantial block-shaped legs support the table at each corner, while the continuous wooden apron reinforces its solid, almost monolithic appearance.
The original “Arflex – Made in Italy” manufacturer's label is preserved on the underside, confirming its production provenance.
Design & Function
The Talete reflects Cini Boeri's preference for essential forms and functional clarity, eliminating unnecessary decorative elements in favor of architectural precision.
Its exceptionally low profile and generous tabletop make it particularly suitable as a central coffee table in spacious living rooms and contemporary lounge settings.
The substantial corner supports give the piece a grounded appearance, while its symmetrical construction allows it to be appreciated from every angle.
Materials & Aesthetic
The design relies on the contrast between the warm reddish-brown tones of cherry wood and the deep, uniform black of the laminate surface.
The natural wood grain introduces subtle visual variation, while the smooth black tabletop creates a clean, uninterrupted horizontal plane.
This carefully controlled combination of materials emphasizes the table's geometry and gives it a distinctly sophisticated 1980s Italian modernist character.
Technical Details
Product: Cini Boeri Talete Cherry Wood & Black Laminate Coffee Table for Arflex, 1980s
Designer: Cini Boeri
Manufacturer: Arflex, Italy
Period: 1980s
Materials: Cherry wood, black laminate
Dimensions: Length: 94cm | Depth: 94cm | Height: 30cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present, which do not affect its functionality. We kindly invite you to take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Collectibility
The Talete model is an exceptionally rare design by Cini Boeri, seldom encountered on the vintage furniture market.
To the best of our knowledge, this is currently the only example available for sale, making it a particularly interesting opportunity for collectors of Italian design.
The table is currently on loan to Triennale Milano in connection with an exhibition scheduled for 2027.
Its rarity, documented Arflex manufacture, and association with one of Italy's most important twentieth-century designers contribute to its considerable collectible appeal.
Designer & Manufacturer
Cini Boeri (1924–2020) was an influential Italian architect and industrial designer, recognized for her innovative approach to domestic furniture and her ability to combine functional requirements with architectural experimentation.
Throughout her career, she collaborated with prominent Italian manufacturers, creating furniture characterized by structural simplicity, intelligent material choices, and an unconventional interpretation of everyday living.
Arflex, established in Italy in 1947, became one of the leading manufacturers of modern Italian furniture, particularly renowned for its technological research and collaborations with influential architects and designers.
The company's longstanding relationship with Cini Boeri produced numerous important designs, contributing significantly to the evolution of Italian domestic furniture during the second half of the twentieth century.
