Pair of Tito Agnoli Footstools, Italy 1960s
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Description
Tito Agnoli, a 20th-century Italian designer, was initially trained as an architect. Throughout his career, he worked alongside iconic Italian creatives like Gio Ponti and Carlo De Carli. Agnoli’s work from the 1950s and 60s reveals how he integrated structural thinking into his visual language. His models, incorporating natural materials, expanded the design vocabulary of modern Italian domestic objects, demonstrating that modernism did not have to be cold or metallic to maintain rigor.
These footstools make this approach visible. The bases are constructed from bent rattan arranged in a continuous vertical rhythm, forming a cylinder that feels both open and solid at once. Rattan is not merely decorative here. Its flexibility and strength allow the structure to remain light without feeling fragile, while the natural, warm tone gives the form a grounded presence. The circular seats are upholstered in soft, off-white sheepskin, providing a tactile contrast to the smooth rattan bodies. Balance is achieved through the relationship between the swirling verticality of the rattan and the clean, round plane of the seat, giving these pieces a sense of warmth, relaxation, and discipline. Versatile in its functionality, this pair brings a touch of natural beauty indoors. Their timeless allure and understated sophistication make them beloved accent pieces in modern interiors, standing as a testament to the enduring appeal of organic materials and masterful craftsmanship.
These stools embody a moment in Italian design when comfort, scale, and everyday use were valued alongside clarity of line. Their honesty allows the structure and materials to shine and remain central to the design. In a room, they are not simple accent objects, but rather elements that help establish atmosphere.
Condition:
In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Items have recently been reupholstered in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Please reach out for more information.
Dimensions:
17.32 in ø x 19.68 in H
44 cm ø x 50 cm H
Shipping:
These footstools will be packaged and shipped with the greatest care and attention to make sure you will receive the items in gallery condition. Complimentary shipping within the Netherlands.
IMPORTANT!
VAT normally applies and will be added to items when purchased by a European buyer or transported to a location within the EU. -
More Information
Documentation: Documented elsewhere (similar item) Origin: Italy Period: 1950-1979 Materials: Rattan, Sheepskin Condition: Good. In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Items have recently been reupholstered in premium sheepskin. Each of our items can be reupholstered by our in-house atelier in a fabric of choice. Creation Date: Mid-20th Century Number of Pieces: 2-3 Styles / Movements: Modern, Mid Century Dealer Reference #: 20253335 Incollect Reference #: 833722 -
Dimensions
H. 19.69 in; Diam. 17.32 in; H. 50 cm; Diam. 44 cm;
Message from Seller:
Located in Utrecht, The Netherlands, H. Gallery specializes in modern and contemporary design with a strong focus on Brazil and Scandinavia. The gallery strives to preserve and promote especially Brazil's rich design heritage and curates a select group of contemporary artists. Meticulous research, ie getting in contact with the original designers, producers, their heirs, and retrieving and indexing old catalogues and magazines is at the heart of its activities. All works presented excel in great