Coffee table "Metafora", Lella and Massimo Vignelli, 1979

An emblematic piece of post-modern design, the "Metafora" table, designed in 1979 by Lella & Massimo Vignelli for Martinelli Luce, embodies minimalist elegance and the balance of forms. Its transparent glass top rests on four distinct geometric shapes – a cube, a cylinder, a pyramid, and a sphere – sculpted from noble marble (Carrara, Marquina, Travertine, or Verona Red). Each shape is rich in history and culture: the sphere represents the globe, our planet, the origin and support of humanity; the pyramid evokes Egyptian civilization, the cradle of culture and spirituality; the cylinder, which can be placed upright or lying down, symbolizes the Roman Empire, the pinnacle of the ancient world before its collapse; the cube refers to the Kaaba in Mecca, the foundation of Islam. Without visible screws or apparent fixings, the 'Metafora' is a functional work of art where the interplay of materials and forms gives a unique sculptural presence to any interior space. A true icon of Italian design, it fits seamlessly into both vintage and contemporary decor. Origin: Casigliani, Pisa, Italy. Dimensions: H. 22cm L. 119.5cm W. 120cm. Materials: Glass and white, black, and yellow marble.