Skip to main content

Memphis Group Furniture

Italian

To many people, postmodern design is synonymous with the Memphis Group. This Italian collaborative created the most radical and attention-getting designs of the period, upending most of the accepted standards of how furniture should look.

The Memphis story begins in 1980, when Ettore Sottsass, then a beacon of Italian postmodernism, tapped a coterie of younger designers to develop a collection for the Milan Furniture Fair the next year, determined that all the new furniture they were then seeing was boring. Their mission: Boldly reject the stark minimalism of the 1970s and shatter the rules of form and function. (Sottsass’s Ultrafragola mirror, designed in 1970, embodied many of what would become the collective’s postmodern ideals.)

The group decided to design, produce and market their own collection, one that wouldn’t be restricted by concerns like functionality and so-called good taste. Its debut, at Milan’s 1981 Salone del Mobile, drew thousands of viewers and caused a major stir in design circles.

So as a record of Bob Dylan’s “Stuck Inside of Mobile” played on repeat, they took their name from the song, devised their marketing strategy and plotted the postmodern look that would come to define the decade of excess — primary colors, blown-up proportions, playful nods to Art Deco and Pop art. A high-low mix of materials also helped define Memphis, as evidenced by Javier Mariscal’s pastel serving trays, which feature laminate veneer — a material previously used only in kitchens — as well as Shiro Kuramata’s Nara and Kyoto tables made from colored glass-infused terrazzo.

An image of Sottsass posing with his collaborators in a conversation pit shaped like a boxing ring appeared in magazines all over the world, and Karl Lagerfield furnished his Monte Carlo penthouse entirely in Memphis furniture. Meanwhile, members like Andrea Branzi, Aldo Cibic, Michele de Lucchi, Nathalie du Pasquier, Kuramata, Paola Navone, Peter Shire, George Sowden, Sottsass and his wife, journalist Barbara Radice, went on to enjoy fruitful careers.

Some people think of the Milan-based collective as the design equivalent to Patrick Nagel’s kitschy screenprints, but for others Memphis represents what made the early 1980s so great: freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors.

Eventually, the Reagan era gave way to cool 1990s minimalism, and Memphis fell out of fashion. Sottsass left the group in 1985, and by 1987, it had disbanded. Yet decades later, Memphis is back and can be traced to today’s most exciting designers.

“As someone who was born in the 1980s, Memphis at times feels like the grown-up, artsy version of the toys I used to play with,” says Shaun Kasperbauer, cofounder of the Brooklyn studio Souda. “It feels a little nostalgic, but at the same time it seems like an aesthetic that’s perfectly suited to an internet age — loud, colorful and utilizing forms that are graphic and often a little unexpected.”

Find a collection of vintage Memphis Group seating, tables, decorative objects and other furniture on 1stDibs.

131
36
1
to
2
146
12
168
38
72
130
2
36
132
1
35
28
3
48
46
44
36
33
165
161
2
2
1
150
5,291
4,012
2,454
2,235
Creator: Memphis Group
Cauliflower Fruit Bowl, by Nathalie du Pasquier from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Nathalie du Pasquier, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Cauliflower ceramic fruit bowl was originally designed in 1985 for Memphis Milano by the ingenious pattern designer of the Memphis Group, Nathalie du Pasquier. Enthusiastic, expl...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Super White with Colored Sockets USA 110V by Martine Bedin for Memphis Milano C.
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Super White table or floor lamp in fiberglass with multicolored light bulbs. Designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Martine Bedin was born in Bordeaux in 1957. In 1981 she was one of the founding members of the Memphis group, she works as an architect, industrial designer and professor. Her works are exhibited in many museums and private collections. Memphis is the great cultural phenomenon of the 1980s that revolutionized creative and commercial logics in design. Born from the idea of Ettore Sottsass and a group of young designers and architects, in Milan, coupled in the years by famous designers from the international scene, Memphis turned upside down all of the existing parameters on living. Ettore Sottsass as the backbone of the group, design gained a new concept and expression through new shapes, materials and patterns, expanding the creative limits of the industry. Memphis became a symbol of new design. Its influence is still clear in various sectors of production and beyond. Additional information: Dimensions: L. 17.75" x H. 11.75" inches Lighting info: Bulb E14, W 40. -Additional Lighting Info: Please note that this item is wired in 110 V for the standard US light socket. - Price includes additional US rewiring cost for accessibility with US outlets. - If you are interested in the EU version of this light, please refer to the dealers storefront for the (EU) wired light fixture...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

Santa Ana Ceramic Ceiling Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Matteo Thun from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Matteo Thun
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the Santa Ana Ceramic ceiling lamp with US wiring accessibility, designed in 1983 by Matteo Thun. The lamp is numbered and does not include the bulb. Born 1952 ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Ashoka Metal Table Lamp 'EU' 220 Volts, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired, Ashoka table lamp in lacquered metal, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano. Ettore Sottsass was b...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Super All White EU 220V Table or Floor Lamp by Martine Bedin from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Martine Bedin, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired, super all white table or floor lamp in fiberglass, designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Color options for light sockets also include: blue, yellow, an...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

21 Clesitera Glass Vase by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Clesitera glass vase with pendant, was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is blown glass, and signed on the base, for further information please see authent...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

13 Malide Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The 13 Malide glass vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is part of the “Malide Glass” collection. Made in Murano glass, and signed on the base “E.Sottsa...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Santa Ana Ceramic Ceiling Lamp EU 220 Volts, by Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Matteo Thun
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the Santa Ana Ceramic Ceiling Lamp with EU wiring accessibility, designed in 1983 by Matteo Thun. The Lamp is numbered and does not include the bulb. Born 1952 in...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Fortune Side Table, by Michele De Lucchi for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Michele de Lucchi, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Fortune Side table in plastic laminate, lacquered wood and glass. Designed in 1982, by Michele De Lucchi. Michele De Lucchi was born in 1951 in Ferrara and graduated in architectur...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood, Plastic

Tigris Porcelain Vase by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The "Tigris" porcelain vase, comprised of stacked, spouted and coiled forms covered in powder blue, white and black glazes, Memphis Milano collection. The Tigris Vase was originally ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Aldebaran Glass Fruit Bowl, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Aldebaran Glass Fruit Bowl was designed for Memphis in 1983 by Ettore Sottsass. This bowl features a tapering cylindrical shape with three green handles, with the side decorated ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Ashoka Metal Table Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano C.
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Ashoka Table Lamp in lacquered metal, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in 1917. In 1939 he graduated in architecture at the Politecnico di Torino. One of the most influential and important figures of the last century. As an Architect and Designer, he has participated in all radical movements whether created from the 1970s and 1980s. In 1981 he founded the Memphis group, a group that has radically changed the scenario of Italian and world design. Honored with numerous international awards, was winner of the Golden Compass in 1959. He designed the first laptop "Valentina" by Olivetti. He died in 2007 at the age of 90 years. Memphis Milano is the great cultural phenomenon of the 1980s that revolutionized creative and commercial logics in design. Born from the idea of Ettore Sottsass and a group of young designers and architects, in Milan, coupled in the years by famous designers from the international scene, Memphis turned upside down all of the existing parameters on living. Ettore Sottsass as the backbone of the group, design gained a new concept and expression through new shapes, materials and patterns, expanding the creative limits of the industry. Memphis became a symbol of New Design. Its influence is still clear in various sectors of production and beyond. Additional Info: - Dimensions: W 29, D 5, H 35.5 inches - Lighting Info: 1 X 50 W, 12 V - 5 X 40W. (E14) - Materials: Lacquered metal. - Additional Lighting Info: Please note that this item is wired in 110 V for the standard US light socket. - Price includes additional US rewiring cost for accessibility with US outlets. - If you are interested in the EU version of this light, please refer to the dealers storefront for the (EU) wired light fixture...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Ashoka Large Table Lamp by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano
By Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in Kansas City, MO
Ashoka lamp by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis, Milano, 1981. Excellent condition.
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Steel

Beverly Wood Sideboard, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Beverly sideboard in wood and covered with plastic laminate and natural briar, plus a two-door container with shelf, was originally designed in 1981 by Ettore Sottsass for Memphi...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood, Plastic

14 Astidamia Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Astidamia glass vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is part of the “Astidamia Glass” collection. Made in blown Murano glass, and signed “E.Sottsass ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

26 Niobe Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Niobe Glass Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is made out of blown glass and signed on the base. For further information please see authenticity i...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

31 Imera Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Imera Glass Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is made out of blown glass, and signed on the base, for further information please see authenticity ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Blown Glass

Laurel Table Lamp (EU) 220 Volts, by Peter Shire for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Peter Shire
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Laurel Table light is wired with EU voltage accessibility, and originally designed in 1985 by Peter Shire. The light fixture is in sheet steel, painted dark-blue, purple, green a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Steel

Super All White US 110V Table or Floor Lamp by Martine Bedin for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Super All White table or floor lamp in fiberglass, designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Color options for light sockets also include: blue, yellow, and multi-colored sockets. Martine Bedin was born in Bordeaux in 1957. In 1981 she was one of the founding members of the Memphis group, she works as an architect, industrial designer and professor. Her works are exhibited in many museums and private collections. Memphis is the great cultural phenomenon of the 80s that revolutionized creative and commercial logics in design. Born from the idea of Ettore Sottsass and a group of young designers and architects, in Milan, coupled in the years by famous designers from the international scene, Memphis turned upside down all of the existing parameters on living. Ettore Sottsass as the backbone of the group, design gained a new concept and expression through new shapes, materials and patterns, expanding the creative limits of the industry. Memphis became a symbol of New Design. Its influence is still clear in various sectors of production and beyond. Additional Information: - Dimensions: L. 17.75" x H. 11.75" inches - Lighting Info: Bulb E14, W 40. -Additional Lighting Info: Please note that this item is wired in 110 V for the standard US light socket. - Price includes additional US rewiring cost for accessibility with US outlets. - If you are interested in the EU version of this light, please refer to the dealers storefront for the (EU) wired light fixture...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

33 Neobule Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Neobule Glass Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The Vase is glass blown and signed on the base, for further information please see authenticity info below....
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Casablanca Wood Cabinet, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Casablanca cabinet designed in 1981 for Memphis by Ettore Sottsass, in wood and plastic laminated colors. This is an unlimited edition with a number...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood, Plastic

Freemont Gilded Wood Console, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Freemont gilded wood console in wood, plastic laminate and aluminum. Designed in 1985, by Ettore Sottsass. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck i...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood, Plastic

Metropole Clock, by George Sowden for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, George Sowden, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Metropole Clock in plastic laminate, designed in 1982, George Sowden. George Sowden was born in Leeds, UK in 1942. He studied architecture at Gloucestershire College of Art in the 1...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Plastic

2 Fililla Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Fililla Glass Vase is blown glass, with a pendant and was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. Signed on the base, for further information please see authenticity info...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Blown Glass

Super Yellow USA 110V Table or Floor Light, by Martine Bedin for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Super Yellow table or floor lamp in fiberglass, designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Color options also include: Blue, White with Colored Sockets, and all White. Martine Bedin was born in Bordeaux in 1957. In 1981 she was one of the founding members of the Memphis group, she works as an architect, industrial designer and professor. Her works are exhibited in many museums and private collections. Memphis is the great cultural phenomenon of the 1980s that revolutionized creative and commercial logics in design. Born from the idea of Ettore Sottsass and a group of young designers and architects, in Milan, coupled in the years by famous designers from the international scene, Memphis turned upside down all of the existing parameters on living. Ettore Sottsass as the backbone of the group, design gained a new concept and expression through new shapes, materials and patterns, expanding the creative limits of the industry. Memphis became a symbol of New Design. Its influence is still clear in various sectors of production and beyond. Additional information: - Dimensions: L. 17.75" x H. 11.75" inches - Lighting Info: Bulb E14, W 40. - Additional Lighting Info: Please note that this item is wired in 110 V for the standard US light socket. - Price includes additional US rewiring cost for accessibility with US outlets. - If you are interested in the EU version of this light, please refer to the dealers storefront for the (EU) wired light fixture...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

Sol Glass Fruit Bowl, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Sol glass fruit bowl was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982. Signed on the base, for further information please see authenticity info below. Ettore Sottsass was bo...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Amazon Cabinet, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Marco Zanini
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Amazon Cabinet in reconstituted veneer and lacquered wood, was originally designed in 1985 by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano. Marco Zanini was born in Trento in 1954. He gradu...
Category

2010s Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood

Mizar Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Mizar vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982. The piece features clear and blue glass with multicolored handles. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in 1917. In 1939 he graduated in architecture at the Politecnico di Torino One of the most influential and important figures of the last century, Architect and Designer, he has participated in all radical movements whether created from the 1970s and 1980s. In 1981 he founded the Memphis group, a group that has radically changed the scenario of Italian and world design. Honored with numerous international awards, was winner of the Golden...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Rigel Glass Bowl, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Marco Zanini, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Rigel Glass Bowl was originally designed by Marco Zanini in 1982. The piece features blue, black, green, red and clear glass with lid and ste...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

30 Pasifila Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Pasifil Glass Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986 for Memphis. It's part of the “Vetri Glass” collection, made in blown Murano glass. Signed on the base, for ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Alaska Silver Plated Brass Flower Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Alaska Silver Plated Brass Flower Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982. The vase is also available in solid 925 sterling silve...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Silver Plate, Brass

Michele de Lucchi Oceanic Memphis Milano Postmodern
By Michele de Lucchi, Memphis Group
Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Michele de Lucchi's oceanic lamp. Materpiece of 1980s design.    
Category

1980s European Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Stainless Steel

Alcor Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Alcor Glass Vase was designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for Memphis. Signed on the base. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in 1917. In 1939 he graduated in architecture at...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Santa Monica Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Matteo Thun, Memphis Group
Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Santa Monica by Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano. Ceramic pendant lamp. Light is E26 or E27. Shade size is f 30/H 12 cm. cable 120cm.
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Alioth Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Alioth Glass Vase was designed by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis in 1983. The Venetian glass vase features blue fusions and black threads. Signed on the base. Ettore Sottsass was b...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Altair Glass Flower Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Altair Glass Flower Vase was designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982. Signed on the base, please see below for further information. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in 1917. I...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Super White with Colored Sockets EU 220V, by Martine Bedin from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired, super white table or floor lamp in fiberglass with multicolored light bulbs. Designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Martin...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

Alpha Centaury Glass Flower Vase, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Marco Zanini
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Alpha Centaury Glass Flower Vase was designed by Marco Zanini in 1982. Signed on the base, please see below for further information. Marco Zanini was born in Trento in 1954. He ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Ettore Sottass "Pattica Lamp" for Memphis 'Post Design' Collection, 2000
By Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in London, GB
Ettore Sottsass Post design (Memphis), Milan, Italy. ‘Pattica’ lamp, 2000. Yellow dyed maple base with five florescent lamps. Original box. Fully function, supplied complete with ...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Memphis Group Furniture

34 Agelada Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Agelada Glass Vase with pendant was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986 for Memphis. It's part of the “Vetri Glass” collection. Made in blown Murano glass, and signed ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Labrador Brass-Plated Silver Sauce-Boat, by Andrea Branzi from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Andrea Branzi, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Labrador sauce-boat was originally designed by Andrea Branzi in 1982. This piece is featured in brass with plated silver 925, or in solid 925 silver. Prices may vary for the soli...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Brass, Silver

Johanna Grawunder Memphis Large Yellow Black Light Wall Lamps (4), Italy 1989
By Memphis Group, Johanna Grawunder
Located in Vienna, AT
Four early Johanna Grawunder lighting panels or sconces for Memphis, Italy, 1989. Dimensions per piece: 43.3"x29.5"x2". Sold and priced individually. New York based designer/archi...
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

46 Nami Glass Vase, by Marco Zanini from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Marco Zanini, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Nami Glass Vase was originally designed by Marco Zanini in 1986 for Memphis. Sculptural vase features a conical base on a glass pedestal, with opal glass plate topped by a green ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Kim Steel and Plywood Chair Michele De Lucchi for Memphis Original 1980s
By Michele de Lucchi, Memphis Group
Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Kim chair designed by Michele De Lucchi in 1987. Made of unique shaped black steel frame and bent plywood for back and seat. Memphis logo mark is on the back of the seat. This logo i...
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Steel

Memphis Group: Three Nesting Tables by Marco Zanini, Enameled Steel, Italy 1980s
By Marco Zanini, Memphis Group
Located in New York, NY
Marco Zanini (b. 1954) A rare and striking set of three early square geometric nesting tables by Italian tastemaker Marco Zanini, co-founder with Ettore Sottsass of the Memphis Milano Group. In electric blue enameled steel crowned by a chromed railing. With an asymmetrical Art Deco severity in a Fisher...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Enamel, Steel, Chrome

Nara Serving Table, by Shiro Kuramata for Memphis Milano Collection
By Shiro Kuramata, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Shiro Kuramata 1983 Service table made with the traditional technique of terrazzo in concrete conglomerate and coloured glass. Nara perfectly combines the Japanese aesthetic traditi...
Category

2010s Italian Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Concrete

"Tahiti" Lamp by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano, 1981
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in London, GB
For sale an important, highly collectible and iconic piece of late 20th Century design; the wonderful "Tahiti" Lamp, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 and produced by the Memphis G...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Buenos Aires Floor Lamp 'EU' 220 Volts, by Aldo Cibic from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Aldo Cibic
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired, Buenos Aires floor lamp with printed aluminum base, orientable pipes in painted aluminum, and shade in porcelain, designed in 1986, by Aldo Cibic. ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Hilton Metal and Glass Trolley, by Javier Mariscal for Memphis Milano Collection
By Javier Mariscal, Memphis Milano, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Hilton trolley in lacquered metal and crystal glass, designed in 1981 by Javier Mariscal. He was born in Valencia in 1950. In 1971 he moved to Barcelona to study Graphic Design at the Elisava School. There he came into contact with comic book writers and illustrators of the time, such as Mique Beltrán, Daniel Torres and Sento. Together they set up "El rollo enmascarado", a group specialized in underground comics. In the 1980s, he worked as interior designer. In these he collaborated with Memphis Among his best known works are Cobi, the mascot for the 1992 Olympic...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Buenos Aires Floor Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Aldo Cibic for Memphis Milano Collect
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Aldo Cibic
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Buenos Aires Floor Lamp with printed aluminum base, orientable pipes in painted aluminum, and shade in porcelain, designed in 1986, by Aldo Cibic. ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Martine Bedin Super Memphis Milano Postmodern
By Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Famous Super lamp deigned by Martine Bedin. Six light bulb along with its back. With wheel and movable. Iconic one in Memphis Milano and 1980s Postmodern designs.  
Category

1980s European Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Stainless Steel

Santa Fe Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Matteo Thun
Located in Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Santa Fe by Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano. Ceramic pendant lamp. Light is E26 or E27. Shade size is F 30/H 20 cm. cable 120cm.
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Memphis Group furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Memphis Group furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Memphis Group furniture, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. We have 33 vintage editions of these items in-stock, while there is 132 modern edition to choose from as well. Many of the original furniture by Memphis Group were created in the modern style in europe during the 21st century and contemporary. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Fulvio Bianconi, Ferruccio Laviani, and Rodolfo Dordoni. Prices for Memphis Group furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $104 and can go as high as $23,720, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,266.
Questions About Memphis Group Furniture
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Numerous artists and designers were in the Memphis Group. Ettore Sottsass founded the collective and served as its leader. Other members included Aldo Cibic, Andrea Branzi, Javier Mariscal, Martine Bedin, Massimo Iosa Ghini, Michael Graves, Michele De Lucchi, Nathalie du Pasquier, Peter Shire and Shiro Kuramata. You'll find a range of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group was an art and design collective formed in 1980 by Ettore Sottsass. The group debuted in 1981 and continued working together until 1987, producing furniture, decorative objects and textiles. Shop a selection of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 15, 2024
    The Memphis Group is famous for creating the most radical and attention-getting designs of the postmodern period, upending most of the accepted standards of how furniture should look. Its story begins in 1980, when Ettore Sottsass, then a beacon of Italian postmodernism, tapped a coterie of younger designers to develop a collection for the upcoming Milan Furniture Fair. Their mission was to boldly reject the stark minimalism of the 1970s and shatter the rules of form and function. The group decided to design, produce and market its own collection, one that wouldn't be restricted by concerns like functionality and so-called good taste. Its debut at Milan's 1981 Salone del Mobile drew thousands of viewers and caused a major stir in design circles. The group remained active until the 1990s. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Memphis Group furniture and decorative objects.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group designed a wide variety of items from 1980 to 1987 when the collective was active. Their designs included furniture and textiles as well as decorative objects made out of ceramics, metal and glass. Shop a collection of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group formed in 1980 when Italian designer Ettore Sottsass invited fellow artists and designers to band together and create a collective. In 1981, the group debuted with a show in Milan, Italy, and continued to collaborate until disbanding in 1987. You'll find a variety of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Italian designer Ettore Sottsass founded the Memphis Group in 1980 to fulfill his vision of having a team of like-minded designers collaborating to produce unique furniture and decorative objects. In 1981, the group held their first exhibition and continued to design together until 1987. You'll find a selection of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group was created by Italian designer Ettore Sottsass to bring together artists and designers with similar visions. He hoped to combine the ideas of all the members and create single furniture and decorative object designs under one name. You'll find a collection of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group got its name from the Bob Dylan song "Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again." During the group's first meeting led by Italian designer Ettore Sottsas the song was on repeat, and the gathered artists and designers drew inspiration from the title. You'll find a variety of Memphis Group furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group debuted their designs in 1981 with an exhibition at the Salone del Mobile of Milan in Milan, Italy. Although many people criticized their designs at the time, the design group developed a cult following that boasted famous creatives like fashion designer Karl Lagerfield and musician David Bowie. Shop a variety of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Memphis Group had an eclectic style created by combining the creativity of numerous artists and designers. Its furniture, textiles and decorative aspects blend elements of Pop Art and Art Deco design. Shop a range of Memphis Group furniture at 1stDibs.

Recently Viewed

View All