Extraordinary and exceptionally rare brutalist bed from the iconic Barium series, designed by sculptor Luciano Frigerio and produced by Frigerio di Desio in the late 1960s. This remarkable bed is one of only 30 examples ever produced worldwide, making it an exceptionally rare and highly desirable collector’s piece. The bed is crafted from solid walnut, with sculptural wooden elements arranged to evoke a musical score, enriched by massive brass corners and side details retaining their beautiful original, unpolished patina. Produced in an extremely limited edition of just 30 examples, the Barium bed was the most expensive piece in the collection at the time, reflecting its extraordinary craftsmanship, sophisticated construction, and exclusive character. It has never appeared at auction and is currently the only example available on the market, representing a remarkable opportunity to acquire an important work of Italian collectible design.
The bed will be accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity issued by the Luciano Frigerio Official Archive, providing documented confirmation of its authenticity and historical significance.
The bed is preserved in almost perfect vintage condition, as shown in the photographs, with only a few minimal signs of age.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Product Name: Rare “Barium” Bed – One of Only 30 Examples Produced
Designer: Luciano Frigerio
Manufacturer: Frigerio di Desio, Italy
Period: Late 1960 - Beginning of 1970
Style: Italian Brutalism
Production: Extremely limited production of only 30 examples worldwide
Materials: Solid walnut and massive brass with original, unpolished patina
Distinctive Design: Sculptural solid walnut elements arranged to resemble a musical score, complemented by massive brass corners and side details
Dimensions: Bed: 200 × 173 × H31 cm
Headboard: H92 × 189 cm
Compatible mattress: 160 × 190 cm EU standard mattress.
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.
Authenticity: Supplied with an official Certificate of Authenticity issued by the Luciano Frigerio Official Archive. Collectibility: One of only 30 examples ever produced, an exceptionally rare example of Italian sculptural furniture from the late 1960s.
IMPORTANT NOTICE – ITALIAN BED SIZING & MATTRESS COMPATIBILITY
Please note that this is an Italian-size bed, designed to accommodate a mattress measuring 160 × 190 cm (approximately 63 × 74.8 inches). Italian and American bed sizing standards differ. Therefore, standard US-size mattresses, including US Queen and King sizes, are not compatible with this bed. We kindly ask all prospective buyers to carefully review the dimensions provided in the listing before purchasing. If you have any questions regarding measurements, mattress compatibility, or sizing, please do not hesitate to contact us before placing your order. We will be happy to provide any additional information to ensure that the bed meets your requirements.
DESIGNER & MANUFACTURER
Luciano Frigerio, born in Desio in 1928, revolutionised the world of furniture design and production, inheriting the family tradition of fine cabinet-making. After graduating in accountancy, he developed a passion for furniture design and musical composition. In the 1960s, taking advantage of the entrepreneurial opportunities of the Brianza district, he transformed the family business into an international enterprise, collaborating with important figures such as Gio Ponti and Franco Albini. Frigerio fulfilled his dream of creating furniture as unique pieces, introducing “sculpture furniture in solid wood” and “sculpture beds in cast bronze,” combining artisanal excellence with precious materials. His company produced numbered and signed pieces, working alongside renowned architects and designers. Between the 1970s and 1990s, he opened ten showrooms throughout Italy. Recognised with various honorary titles, his works are exhibited in art galleries and have received prestigious awards. The permanent exhibitions in Milan testify to his continued influence on contemporary design, celebrating aesthetics and exceptional craftsmanship.
