Beautiful coffee table model 771 designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Cassina in the mid-1960s, produced and sold at the time together with the famous chairs from the same series, model 121.
Entirely crafted in solid African rosewood, this coffee table represents a level of craftsmanship that is virtually unparalleled.
The conditions are nearly perfect, with only very minor signs of time consistent with its almost 70 years of age; the Cassina manufacturer’s mark is present underneath the table.
Literature:
Ottagono 6 (July 1966), p. 24
Figli di Amedeo Cassina, catalog 1967, unnumbered pages
Domus 453 (August 1967), p. 25
Domus 455 (October 1967)
Casa Amica 6 January 1970, p. 26
Antonio Piva, Afra e Tobia Scarpa Architetti e Designers, Mondadori, Milan, 1985, p. 137
Giuliana Gramigna, Repertorio 1950–2000, Allemandi, Turin, 2003, p. 118
Product Name: Coffee Table 771 by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Cassina 1960
Designer: Afra and Tobia Scarpa
Year of Design: Mid-1960s
Style: Italian modernism of the 1960s
Main Materials: Solid African rosewood
Distinctive Design: Essential and refined lines, conceived to be paired with the model 121 chairs from the same series
Dimensions: Height 38 cm | Width 75 cm | Length 75 cm
Comfort: Designed for elegant and functional use, offering great stability and robustness
Typical Use: Coffee table for living rooms, exclusive furnishing complement
Design Icon: Represents the pinnacle of artisanal production of its time, with craftsmanship of unsurpassed quality
Versatility: Perfect for both modern interiors and vintage contexts thanks to its timeless design
Current Design Condition: Near-perfect condition with minimal signs of time, despite its almost 70 years
Additional Notes: This unique piece, built to last for centuries, embodies the highest level of artisanal quality and remains a significant testament to 20th-century Italian design
Afra and Tobia Scarpa were two Italian designers renowned for their work in architecture and industrial design. Afra Bianchin Scarpa (1937–2011) and Tobia Scarpa (born 1935) worked together as a couple both in life and in their professional practice, forming one of the most prolific and influential duos in the Italian design landscape of the 20th century.
Both Afra and Tobia Scarpa graduated in architecture from the IUAV University of Venice, where they studied under prominent architects such as Carlo Scarpa (Tobia’s brother) and Giuseppe Samonà. After completing their studies, they began working together in the studio of architect and designer Carlo Scarpa, where they had the opportunity to develop their distinctive and sophisticated style.
Their collaboration resulted in numerous iconic furniture and interior design projects, often characterized by timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail. Their works were produced by internationally renowned brands such as B&B Italia, Cassina, and Flos.
Afra and Tobia Scarpa received numerous awards and recognitions throughout their careers, further consolidating their status as pioneers in the field of contemporary design. Their legacy continues to influence generations of designers and design enthusiasts worldwide.
Cassina is an Italian high-end furniture company based in Meda, in the province of Como, founded in 1927 by Cesare and Umberto Cassina. The company was a pioneer in the field of industrial design in Italy and played a significant role in promoting modern and contemporary design internationally.
From its earliest years, Cassina collaborated with some of the most important designers of the 20th century, such as Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, and Pierre Jeanneret, developing close working relationships that led to the production of some of the most iconic pieces of modern design, including the celebrated LC4 Chaise Longue and the LC2 sofa.
In later decades, Cassina continued to work with world-renowned designers such as Gio Ponti, Mario Bellini, Achille Castiglioni, and many others. The company is known for its ability to merge tradition and innovation, producing high-quality furniture that represents a perfect balance between form, function, and craftsmanship.