This exceptional dining table, designed by the legendary Gio Ponti in the early 1940s, is a stunning example of Italian craftsmanship and design. Featuring a rectangular top veneered in rich Italian walnut, the table exudes a sense of refined elegance and timeless appeal. Below, four beautifully tapered, fluted legs offer a delicate contrast to the table's bold surface, with the same striking fluted, grooved motif elegantly extending to the edges of the tabletop. This signature Ponti detail brings both texture and movement, making the piece a true statement of his signature style.

Design

This particular design was not only influential in the world of Italian design, but it also plays a part in one of Ponti’s most iconic architectural works. The same fluted pattern appears in the rectorate building at the University of Padua, where Ponti worked on the interior design in the early 1940s. The motif was also featured in the bespoke furniture Ponti designed for Villa La Quiete dell’Alpino in Stresa, the residence of Gianni Mazzocchi, editor of the prestigious Domus magazine. The table, therefore, embodies a rich legacy in both architecture and design.

A certificate from the Gio Ponti Institute accompanies this extraordinary piece, validating its authenticity and historical importance.

Condition

The table has undergone partial restoration to preserve its character while maintaining its original beauty. Despite some normal wear and tear consistent with age and use, it remains in overall good condition, with its striking design and superior craftsmanship still evident in every detail.

References

- Domus magazine (March 1940, pp. 82-83)

- Phillips London (September 2017, lot 124) and Phillips New York (June 2014, lot 82).

Please watch the video for a more accurate representation of the colors and details, as it sometimes offers a clearer view than the photos.