Step into the opulent world of 1970s Italian design with this breathtaking center table - also perfect as a dining table, a rare collaboration between visionary designer Renato Zevi and the storied Florentine manufacturer Banci Firenze. This piece is a true testament to the era’s fearless blend of Hollywood Regency glamour and mid-century modern innovation—a sculptural masterpiece that transforms any dining space into a scene straight out of a Fellini film.
Renato Zevi, a celebrated Italian designer of the 20th century, was renowned for his ability to fuse sleek modernity with luxurious materials. In the 1970s, Zevi partnered with Banci Firenze, a prestigious house founded in 1899 by Giuseppe Banci, originally famed for its exquisite chandeliers. By the mid-20th century, Banci Firenze had expanded into furniture, becoming a beacon of Italian craftsmanship. Together, Zevi and Banci Firenze created this iconic center/dining table, a perfect embodiment of their shared passion for bold design and meticulous artistry.
The table’s base is a work of art in itself—a dynamic composition of chrome and brass-plated metal, crafted into a fan-like structure that evokes the elegance of a palm frond or a modernist sculpture. The base features four gracefully curved supports that flare outward, each composed of alternating chrome and brass bands, catching the light with every angle. This intricate metalwork is anchored by a geometric plinth, adding a sense of grounded sophistication. Above, a thick, round glass top—measuring approximately 127.5cm in diameter—provides a sleek, transparent surface that allows the stunning base to take center stage. The glass is in excellent vintage condition, with only minor surface scratches consistent with its age, adding to its authentic charm.
This table tells a story of a glamorous era when design was daring and unapologetic. Imagine it in a chic 1970s Milanese apartment, hosting lavish dinner parties where artists, designers, and intellectuals gathered to sip martinis and debate the future of art. Its reflective chrome and warm brass tones paired with the airy glass top create a striking contrast, making it a versatile piece that can elevate both minimalist modern interiors and more eclectic, vintage-inspired spaces.
Details:
- Designer: Renato Zevi
- Manufacturer: Banci Firenze, Italy
- Period: 1970s
- Materials: Chrome-plated metal, brass-plated metal, glass
- Dimensions: Approximately 127.5cm in diameter, 72.5cm in height
- Condition: Very good vintage condition. The glass top shows minor surface scratches, and the chrome and brass base exhibits light patina and oxidation, consistent with age, which enhances its vintage appeal. Structurally sound and ready to be enjoyed.
Perfect for collectors of mid-century Italian design or those looking to make a bold statement in their dining room, this Renato Zevi for Banci Firenze table is a rare find that marries functionality with high-style artistry. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of design history that continues to dazzle decades later.
Dimensions: H72cm x W127cm x D127cm
Collection by appointment from The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood, Kent TN12 6PY. Delivery quoted before you buy – please get in touch.
