“Metafora” coffee table, Lella and Massimo Vignelli, 1979

An iconic piece of postmodern design, the "Metafora" table, designed in 1979 by Lella & Massimo Vignelli for Martinelli Luce, embodies minimalist elegance and balanced forms. Its transparent glass top rests on four distinct geometric shapes – a cube, a cylinder, a pyramid, and a sphere – sculpted from fine marble (Carrara, Marquina, Travertine, or Verona Red).

Each of the forms is steeped 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.
  

With no visible screws or fixings, the 'Metafora' is a functional work of art where the interplay of materials and forms lends a unique sculptural presence to any interior space. A true icon of Italian design, it integrates equally well into vintage or contemporary decor.

Origin: Casigliani, Pisa, Italy.

Dimensions: H. 22cm L.119.5cm W.120 cm.

Materials: Glass and white, black and yellow marble.