Gae Aulenti Jumbo coffee table Knoll International 1964

Iconic Jumbo coffee table designed by Gae Aulenti and manufactured by Knoll International in Italy in 1964. It’s made from gorgeous white Carrara marble, known for its beautiful white colour with elegant grey veins running through it. What makes this particular table so special is its unique design, the square tabletop is supported by four marble legs, which have an interesting shape reminiscent of Roman architecture. They consist of two pillars connected by a flat piece of marble, creating a dynamic and stable base for the tabletop. It’s interesting to note that Carrara marble has historical ties to Roman culture, which might have influenced this design. The surface was polished due to discoloration, and while there is some minor wear, it is now in excellent condition.

One of the few female members of the postwar Italian modern movement, Gae Aulenti made a name for herself early in her career as an industrial designer, before gaining fame for larger architectural commissions. After studying architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, she worked as a furniture designer for various Italian department stores. Aulenti first collaborated with Knoll on two showroom designs — Boston (1968) and 745 Fifth Avenue in New York (1970). In 1972, Knoll introduced the Jumbo Table, an imposing marble coffee table design she had originally conceived in 1965. Her second design for Knoll, introduced as the Aulenti Collection in 1976, was a complete collection including lounge seating, side chairs, and high and low tables.

Literature; Repertorio Del Design Italiano 195o~2000 Volume 1 Giuliana Gramigna, page 111