Skip to main content

Mario Bellini Sofas

Italian, b. 1935

Milan-born architect and designer Mario Bellini just may be the closest thing to a modern-day Renaissance man: His creative output spans genres, from electronics to furniture to architecture to cars, comprising iconic designs in each. Vintage Mario Bellini sofas, dining chairs and other seating pieces are widely coveted, and the designer has been the recipient of multiple prestigious Compasso d’Oro awards. More than 20 of his works are in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art.

Born in 1935, Bellini studied architecture at the Polytechnic University of Milan before founding his own firm in his native city in the early 1960s. He soon branched out beyond architecture, however, first for the tech manufacturer Olivetti, where he served as chief industrial design consultant from 1963 to 1991. During that time, Bellini oversaw the design of some of Olivetti’s most popular typewriters.

His penchant for electronic design didn’t stop there: Bellini also designed cameras for Fuji, televisions for Brionvega and a slew of audio devices for Yamaha, then served as design consultant for Renault and devised the interior of the 1980 Lancia Trevi for Fiat. Meanwhile, his architecture work spans continents, including such modern gems as the Museum of Islamic Arts at the Louvre, the National Gallery of Victoria extension in Melbourne, the Dubai Creek Complex and the Milan Convention Centre in his hometown.

And then there’s the furniture: Over the last 70 years, Bellini has designed office furniture for Vitra; lamps for Artemide, Erco and FLOS; porcelain for Rosenthal and long-admired sofas and other seating for Kartell, Natuzzi, B&B Italia, Cassina and more.

His oft-imitated 1977 Cab chair for Cassina, comprising 16 individual pieces of saddle leather that create a “skin” over a minimal metal frame, remains one of the manufacturer’s best sellers today. His pudgy-legged, round tables for Cassina foreshadow Faye Toogood’s widely loved Roly Poly line. His postmodern Summa armchairs for Kartell, as well as his elegant Chiara floor lamp, still lure collectors on vintage furniture websites.

Bellini’s most famous contribution to furniture design, though, may be his 1970 Camaleonda sofa for B&B Italia (then C&B Italia). An entrant to the 1972 MoMA show “Italy: The New Domestic Landscape,” the seat takes its name from the Italian words for chameleon and wave. Its bulbous, modular form makes it infinitely flexible. The sofa was a runaway hit at the show and, once discontinued, remained so popular among vintage dealers that B&B Italia reissued it in 2020 with all recycled materials and interchangeable seat covers. “Of all the objects I have designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom,” Bellini said.

Browse an expansive collection of vintage Mario Bellini furniture — including dining tables, armchairs, mid-century sofas and more — today on 1stDibs.

to
11
177
29
191
16
3
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
96
46
28
33
20
26
9
14
11
9
9
11
148
13
191
19
20
168
9
158
5
143
71
68
65
51
200
199
210
194
202
337
316
191
159
Creator: Mario Bellini
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 2
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 2

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 2

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, blue velvet, Italy, 1970, set of 2 "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini, it was...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Plastic, Velvet

Mario Bellini Green Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 2
Mario Bellini Green Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 2

Mario Bellini Green Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 2

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Vicenza, IT

Camaleonda sofa, designed by Mario Bellini and manufactured by B&B Italia in 1972. The set features two modules with backrest and two armrests. Green linen velvet upholstery. Fu...

Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Foam, Linen

Mario Bellini White Bouclè Camaleonda Sofa
Mario Bellini White Bouclè Camaleonda Sofa

Mario Bellini White Bouclè Camaleonda Sofa

By Mario Bellini, C&B Italia

Located in London, England

Listed price is per module. Four modules available. Please refer to the Item Condition section for specific details. C&B Italia four large modules with large backs, three detachable armrests, newly reupholstered in Ivory bouclé by Dedar (Karakorum 001, 00T1701100001). The Camaleonda sofa...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé

Le Bambole sofa in velvet By Mario Bellini For B&B Italia, 1970s
Le Bambole sofa in velvet By Mario Bellini For B&B Italia, 1970s

Le Bambole sofa in velvet By Mario Bellini For B&B Italia, 1970s

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in ABCOUDE, UT

Beautiful Le Bambole sofa in coral/pink coloured velvet designed by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia in the 1970s. This beautiful edition is reupholstered in a high quality cotton velve...

Category

1970s Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 4
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 4

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 4

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, rust brown alpaca velvet, Italy, 1970, set of four. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modula...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Alpaca, Velvet

Mario Bellini Le Bambole Sofa, Upholstered in Alpaca, B&B Italia, 1970s
Mario Bellini Le Bambole Sofa, Upholstered in Alpaca, B&B Italia, 1970s

Mario Bellini Le Bambole Sofa, Upholstered in Alpaca, B&B Italia, 1970s

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lewes, East Sussex

A beautiful Mario Bellini Le Bambole sofa, produced by B&B Italia, Italy in the 1970s, newly upholstered in luxurious 100% alpaca. Marked on the underside. Fast shipping worldwide.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Alpaca

"Camaleonda" Sofa modular by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s
"Camaleonda" Sofa modular by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

"Camaleonda" Sofa modular by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in bruxelles, BE

Sofa in green fabric. There are 4 large pieces and an ottoman. Seat height: 35 cm. Dimensions of one piece: H: 65 cm W: 93 cm D: 93 cm Dimensions of the ottoman : H : 35 cm W : 93 cm...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Tacchini Le Mura Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini in STOCK
Tacchini Le Mura Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini in STOCK

Tacchini Le Mura Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini in STOCK

By Tacchini, Mario Bellini

Located in New York, NY

CAT M- MALVA 02 WOOL PADDING MATT BLACK NICKEL CLASP AND ZIP T148 WITH CAL117 INTERLINER The project Le Mura by Mario Bellini represents the manifesto of a radical design that went ...

Category

2010s Italian Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 4
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 4

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 4

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, cognac leather, Italy, 1970, set of four. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa des...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Wood, Leather

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, cognac leather, Italy, 1970, set of six. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa desi...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

"Le Stelle" Loveseat Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia
"Le Stelle" Loveseat Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia

"Le Stelle" Loveseat Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia, Knoll

Located in Los Angeles, CA

"Le Stelle" loveseat sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, Italy, circa 1970s. Newly reupholstered in white Knoll boucle, the sofa features angled arm rests and Bellini's signatu...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown Suede, 1971
Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown Suede, 1971

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown Suede, 1971

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Bambole” sofa for B&B Italia, dark brown suede, Italy, 1971. This is a timeless Postmodern design icon. The starting point was a shopping bag containing formle...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Foam, Suede

White Modular Sofa Model Camaleonda Designed By Mario Bellini. Italy 1970
White Modular Sofa Model Camaleonda Designed By Mario Bellini. Italy 1970

White Modular Sofa Model Camaleonda Designed By Mario Bellini. Italy 1970

By Mario Bellini

Located in Madrid, ES

Discover unparalleled comfort and versatility with the iconic Camaleonda Modular Sofa, a timeless masterpiece designed by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia in 1972. Crafted to perfection,...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, ivory bouclé, Italy, 1970, six elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa designs...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Blue Velvet, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, blue velvet, Italy, 1970, set of six. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini, it...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Plastic, Velvet

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Alpaca, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Alpaca, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Alpaca, 1970, Set of 6

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, two-tone alpaca wool, Italy, 1970, set of six "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini,...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Velvet, Set of 8
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Velvet, Set of 8

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Two-tone Velvet, Set of 8

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, velvet, metal and plastic, Italy, 1970, eight elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, redis...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Plastic, Velvet

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 4
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 4

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 4

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, ivory bouclé, Italy, 1970, set of four. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa designs,...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, ivory bouclé, Italy, 1970, set of six. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa design...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Modular Sofa for B&B Italia, Laguna Velvet, 1970
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Modular Sofa for B&B Italia, Laguna Velvet, 1970

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Modular Sofa for B&B Italia, Laguna Velvet, 1970

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, Laguna velvet, metal and plastic, Italy, 1970, set of four. "Camaleonda" is an icon, redis...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 3
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 3

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 3

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, black leather, Italy, 1970, three elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Belli...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Green Velvet, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Green Velvet, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Green Velvet, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, green velvet, Italy, 1970, set of six. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. Our atelier carefully restored this vintage...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Plastic, Velvet

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac leather, Italy, 1970, set of 6. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini, i...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Wool Bouclé, 1970, Set of 3
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Wool Bouclé, 1970, Set of 3

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Wool Bouclé, 1970, Set of 3

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, ivory wool bouclé, Italy, 1970, three elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Sand Beige, 1970, Set of 5
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Sand Beige, 1970, Set of 5

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Sand Beige, 1970, Set of 5

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, sand beige leather, Italy, 1970, five elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Be...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Camaleonda Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini, Italy 70s, White Bouclé Reupholstered
Camaleonda Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini, Italy 70s, White Bouclé Reupholstered

Camaleonda Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini, Italy 70s, White Bouclé Reupholstered

By Mario Bellini

Located in Madrid, ES

Camaleonda modular sofa designed by Mario Bellini (1935) for C&B Italia in 1972. Composed of 4 large modular seats with backrest, 3 small modular seats with backrest, 1 small module without backrest and 1 shoe remover chair. White bouclé wool upholstery. Measurements of large seats (5): W 96 x D 96 x H 40/65 cm. Measures small seats...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Wood

Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, Brown, 1972
Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, Brown, 1972

Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, Brown, 1972

By Cassina, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Pianura" three-seater modular sofa for Cassina, brown velvet and wood, Italy, 1972 The “Pianura” living room set is a great expression of the minimalism and elegance ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Mario Bellini B&B Italia Camaleonda White Bouclé Fabric Modular Sofa
Mario Bellini B&B Italia Camaleonda White Bouclé Fabric Modular Sofa

Mario Bellini B&B Italia Camaleonda White Bouclé Fabric Modular Sofa

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Ibiza, Spain

Exceptional original sofa designed by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia in 1972, composed of 3 modular seatings with its backrest and 2 armrests White bouclé wool upholstery. - Three...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé

Sofa by mario bellini model “Le stelle” for B&B italia leather
Sofa by mario bellini model “Le stelle” for B&B italia leather

Sofa by mario bellini model “Le stelle” for B&B italia leather

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Ternay, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

60s/70s sofa by Italian designer Mario Bellini, published by B&B Italy, “La Stelle” model. Entirely in mustard yellow leather (original leather), this model is recognizable by its wi...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

'Camaleonda' in Original Leather by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1976, Signed
'Camaleonda' in Original Leather by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1976, Signed

'Camaleonda' in Original Leather by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1976, Signed

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Los Angeles, CA

If you are someone who seeks the absolute best of the best - this is for you. This is an all original modular Camaleonda sectional by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia made within the...

Category

1970s Italian Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 3
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 3

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 3

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, rust brown velvet, Italy, 1970, set of three. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa des...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Dark Brown, 1970, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, dark brown leather, Italy, 1970, set of six. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

Ivory “Camaleonda” Modular Sofa in 4 Segments by Mario Bellini, Italy 1971
Ivory “Camaleonda” Modular Sofa in 4 Segments by Mario Bellini, Italy 1971

Ivory “Camaleonda” Modular Sofa in 4 Segments by Mario Bellini, Italy 1971

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Utrecht, NL

The “Camaleonda” (Italian word play combining the words ‘chameleon’ and ‘wave’) sofa is Mario Bellini’s contemporary classic. The playful, modular design offers endless options for the user, which also inspired the model’s name. Camaleonda has passed through 5 decades of design history as a true icon. The modules of the sofa defined the aesthetics of an entire era of interior design, and are constantly featured in most international design. The elements that have made this sofa a contemporary classic are the individual modules, their original cutting patterns and the polyurethane padding that forms the characteristic capitonné (a style of upholstery in which the material is drawn in at intervals) design. The four separate segments of this “Camaleonda” were manufactured with the innovative system of cables, hooks and rings created by Bellini in 1970, which defines the characteristic look and modularity. The fundamental characteristic of Camaleonda is its unlimited modularity, a geometric pattern that allows each element to become an enormous pixel through which to define your home environment. The four modules’ versatility and the attached tie-rods and rings make it possible to create custom forms. Furthermore, the modules can be unhooked and recombined at will, allowing the sofa to adapt to an evolving taste and needs. A concept which is dear to Mario Bellini: “Of all the objects I have designed, Camaleonda is perhaps the best in terms of its sense of freedom. There are infinite numbers of possible configurations.” Condition: In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. The four modules have been reupholstered recently in premium bouclé fabric. Dimensions: Big segment: 37.40 in W x 37.40 in D x 27.55 in H (with back) 95 cm W x 95 cm D x 70 cm H (with back) Small segment: 25.59 in W x 37.40 in D x 27.55 in H (with back) 65 cm W x 95 cm D x 70 cm H (with back) Literature: Domus n. 523, giugno 1973, pubblicità; G. Gramigna, Repertorio del design italiano 1950 - 1980, Milano 1985, p. 341. About the designer: Mario Bellini (born February 1, 1935, Milan) is an internationally renowned Italian architect and designer. He received the Golden Compass Award eight times and the Medaglia d’Oro, that was conferred on him by the President of the Italian Republic. The MoMA in New York already dedicated a personal retrospective exhibition to him in 1987. At the time the museum already included 25 of his works in its permanent collection, including a remarkable set of Olivetti machines as well as the furniture for B&B and Cassina. He graduated from the Milan Polytechnic - Faculty of Architecture in 1959 and began working as an architect himself in the early 1960s. Like many other Italian architects, his activities range from architecture and urban planning to product and furniture design. His career as a product and furniture designer began in 1963, and from 1963 to 1991 he was chief design consultant for Olivetti. For many years he designed furnishing products and systems for B&B Italia and Cassina, TV sets for Brionvega, and hi-fi systems, headphones and electric organs...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Metal

Blue Mario Bellini Camaleonda Sofa (one module)
Blue Mario Bellini Camaleonda Sofa (one module)

Blue Mario Bellini Camaleonda Sofa (one module)

By Mario Bellini

Located in London, England

Listed price is per module. One unit remaining from the original set of three modules. Reupholstered in Sky Blue cotton velvet by Rose Uniacke. Vintage item. Please refer to the It...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Metal

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 4
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 4

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Leather, 1970, Set of 4

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, black leather, Italy, 1970, set of four. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini,...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 2
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 2

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Ivory Bouclé, 1970, Set of 2

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, ivory bouclé, Italy, 1970, two elements. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sofa des...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Bouclé, Plastic

Iconic Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini – Newly Upholstered Black Cotton, 1973
Iconic Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini – Newly Upholstered Black Cotton, 1973

Iconic Camaleonda Sofa by Mario Bellini – Newly Upholstered Black Cotton, 1973

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in IT

This iconic Camaleonda Sofa, designed by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia in 1973, has been newly upholstered in luxurious 100% Italian black cotton fabric. The sofa features two pieces with a single armrest...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Cotton

B&B Italia Mario Bellini Amanta Italian design modular sofa in velvet
B&B Italia Mario Bellini Amanta Italian design modular sofa in velvet

B&B Italia Mario Bellini Amanta Italian design modular sofa in velvet

By Mario Bellini

Located in BARCELONA, ES

Italian Design Icon: "Amanta" Modular Sofa by Mario Bellini Elevate your living space with one of the most emblematic pieces of 20th-century furniture design. Originally designed in ...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Fiberglass

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, 1971, Set of 2
Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, 1971, Set of 2

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, 1971, Set of 2

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Bambole” sofa for B&B Italia, Mongolian faux-fur, Italy, 1971, set of two. This is a timeless Postmodern design icon. The starting point was a shopping bag contain...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Faux Fur, Foam

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4
Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4

By Mario Bellini, Cassina

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” modular sofa for Cassina, dark brown velvet, Italy, 1972, set of four. Mario Bellini designed the “Le Mura” modular sofa for Cassina in 1972, creating an ico...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 5
Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 5

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" Sofa for B&B Italia, Cognac Leather, 1970, Set of 5

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, cognac leather, Italy, 1970, set of five. "Camaleonda" is an icon, rediscovered. First designed in 1970 by Mario Bellini...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather, Plastic

Mario Bellini, Tentazione Sofa, Fabric, Italy, 1973
Mario Bellini, Tentazione Sofa, Fabric, Italy, 1973

Mario Bellini, Tentazione Sofa, Fabric, Italy, 1973

By Mario Bellini

Located in High Point, NC

A fabric "Tentazione" sofa or loveseat designed by Mario Bellini in 1973 and produced by Cassina, c. 1970s. Vintage fabric in distressed condition, ideally replaced. Dimensions: 29...

Category

1970s Italian Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Camaleonda Lounge Chair by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s
Camaleonda Lounge Chair by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

Camaleonda Lounge Chair by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Renens, CH

The Camaleonda sofa was designed by the architect Mario Bellini in the early 1970s. Conceived as a fully modular seating system, it quickly became an icon of Italian design after bei...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Wood, Leather

Mario Bellini Quartet sofa Cassina Italy 1964
Mario Bellini Quartet sofa Cassina Italy 1964

Mario Bellini Quartet sofa Cassina Italy 1964

By Mario Bellini

Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant

Extremely rare 932 'Quartet' sofa designed by architect Mario Bellini and manufactured by Cassina in Italy in 1964. Very early model made up of five separate pieces. It's quite challenging to come across one in this large and impressive size. What makes it even more special is its gorgeous cognac colour. This sofa's modular design means you can arrange its elements in various ways to suit different settings. It's still in good original condition, considering its age, with some expected wear and tear that adds character and enhances its beautiful appearance and patina. There are no holes or tears in it. In the 1960s Mario Bellini reinterpreted the concept of classic furniture stuffing with the 932 model, transforming the padding of the traditional armchair into an item of furniture: four independent cushions connected by a belt passed around the outside. Bellini took as his starting point Le Corbusier’s Grand...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

Le Mura - Sofa in leather by Mario Bellini for Tacchini W 288 cm (113.3 in)
Le Mura - Sofa in leather by Mario Bellini for Tacchini W 288 cm (113.3 in)

Le Mura - Sofa in leather by Mario Bellini for Tacchini W 288 cm (113.3 in)

By Tacchini, Mario Bellini

Located in Alcamo, IT

Le Mura Sofa - Designed by Mario Bellini Le Mura is more than a sofa: it is a true modular system, a manifesto of radical design from the 1970s. With its bold aesthetic and versatil...

Category

2010s Italian Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

"Le Bambole" Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s
"Le Bambole" Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

"Le Bambole" Sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, 1970s

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in bruxelles, BE

Sofa in red fabric, model: Le Bambole by Mario Bellini. Seat height: 42 cm. Stamped B&B Italia and with all original documents. Very good condition. Wear due to time and age. For shi...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Early 'Camaleonda' Sectional by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia, c 1971, Signed
Early 'Camaleonda' Sectional by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia, c 1971, Signed

Early 'Camaleonda' Sectional by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia, c 1971, Signed

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This monumentally sized modular 'Camaleonda' sectional living room set (fourteen pieces in total) by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, each section signed with labels as can be seen in the photos. Included in the set are eight (8) full-sized seat sections, each is quite large and spacious which adds to the incredible comfort. And six (6) full-sized seat backs leaving two of the seat sections to be used as ottomans or free-floating seat elements to open the sectional to either side. This set has been previously professionally reupholstered with only light use and in very good condition. Designed by Mario Bellini in 1970 for C&B Italia, later produced after 1973 by B&B Italia after Piero Busnelli bought out Cassina and changed the name to B&B. This set consists of six sections labelled with C&B labels and two sections with B&B labels, meaning that most of this set was produced between 1970 and 1973 - the original production years of the Camaleonda, and making this set ideal for collectors and investors of art and design. *We have a large quantity of other Camaleonda elements (C&B Italia and B&B Italia examples, both in mohair fabric and in leather including some sets ready for reupholstery to a new fabric or leather of your choice) if you are looking for a larger set, contact us to discuss. MEASUREMENTS: *This is a modular set with fourteen (14) total pieces and can be configured in many ways as each seating section can be placed wherever you desire and the seat backs can be fixed to the seating elements where you want. You can configure as one large sectional sofa, three-seat couch with loveseats...

Category

1970s Italian Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Mario Bellini Azure Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 6
Mario Bellini Azure Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 6

Mario Bellini Azure Linen Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 6

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Vicenza, IT

Camaleonda sofa, designed by Mario Bellini and manufactured by B&B Italia in 1972. The set features six modules with backrest. High quality Italian azure linen velvet upholstery. ...

Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Linen, Velvet, Foam

Amanta Mario Bellini per B&B 4 Poltroncine modulari in velluto
Amanta Mario Bellini per B&B 4 Poltroncine modulari in velluto

Amanta Mario Bellini per B&B 4 Poltroncine modulari in velluto

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Ghedi, IT

4 splendide poltrone Amanta, disegnate da Mario Bellini, icona del design italiano. Realizzate in velluto azzurro, queste poltrone modulari si distinguono per le loro condizioni ecce...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mario Bellini Brown Alpaca Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 5
Mario Bellini Brown Alpaca Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 5

Mario Bellini Brown Alpaca Velvet Camaleonda Sofa for B&B Italia, 1972, Set of 5

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Vicenza, IT

Camaleonda sofa, designed by Mario Bellini and manufactured by B&B Italia in 1972. The set features three modules with big backrest, and two modules with small backrest. Alpaca...

Category

1970s Italian Space Age Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet, Foam, Alpaca

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa with Ottoman for B&B Italia, 1971
Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa with Ottoman for B&B Italia, 1971

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa with Ottoman for B&B Italia, 1971

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Bambole” two-seater sofa with ottoman for B&B Italia, lapin fur, Italy, 1971. This timeless Postmodern design icon came into being between 1970 and 1972. The searc...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fur, Foam

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, rust brown velvet, Italy, 1970, set of eleven. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular sof...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 11

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, rust brown alpaca velvet, Italy, 1970, set of eleven. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Alpaca, Velvet

Mario Bellini C&B 'Camaleonda' modular sofa in original velvet (First Edition)
Mario Bellini C&B 'Camaleonda' modular sofa in original velvet (First Edition)

Mario Bellini C&B 'Camaleonda' modular sofa in original velvet (First Edition)

By Mario Bellini, C&B Italia

Located in Argelato, BO

Mario Bellini B&B Italia 'Camaleonda' modular sofa in original red velvet 1973 Listed price is per module (4 modules available). The Camaleonda sofa, designed by renowned Italian a...

Category

1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Metal

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4
Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” Modular Sofa for Cassina, Brown Velvet, 1972, Set of 4

By Mario Bellini, Cassina

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Mura” modular sofa for Cassina, dark brown velvet, Italy, 1972, set of four. Mario Bellini designed the “Le Mura” modular sofa for Cassina in 1972, creating an ico...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Leather

Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, White, 1972
Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, White, 1972

Mario Bellini "Pianura" Three-seater Sofa for Cassina, White, 1972

By Mario Bellini, Cassina

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Pianura" three-seater modular sofa for Cassina, white fabric and wood, Italy, 1972 The “Pianura” living room set is a great expression of the minimalism and elegance ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Lapin Fur, 1971
Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Lapin Fur, 1971

Mario Bellini "Le Bambole" Sofa for B&B Italia, Black Lapin Fur, 1971

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini “Le Bambole” sofa for B&B Italia, black lapin fur, Italy, 1971. This timeless Postmodern design icon came into being between 1970 and 1972. The search for a new shape ...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Foam, Fur

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 6
Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 6

Mario Bellini “Camaleonda” Sofa for B&B Italia, Rust Brown, 1970, Set of 6

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Lonigo, Veneto

Mario Bellini "Camaleonda" modular sofa for B&B Italia, rust brown alpaca velvet, Italy, 1970, set of six. “Camaleonda” is an icon, rediscovered. It was one of the truly modular...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Alpaca, Velvet

Mario Bellini two sofas Model "Le Bambole" for B&B Italia, Italy, 1970s
Mario Bellini two sofas Model "Le Bambole" for B&B Italia, Italy, 1970s

Mario Bellini two sofas Model "Le Bambole" for B&B Italia, Italy, 1970s

By B&B Italia, Mario Bellini

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

Pair of fabric sofas, from the Le Bambole series, designed by Mario Bellini in 1972, Italian production, bearing the B&B brand. The 1970s marked a period of significant cultural and...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Mario Bellini Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Bouclé

Mario Bellini sofas for sale on 1stDibs.

Mario Bellini sofas are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of fabric and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Mario Bellini sofas, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original sofas by Mario Bellini were created in the mid-century modern style in europe during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider sofas by B&B Italia, Afra & Tobia Scarpa, and Giancarlo Piretti. Prices for Mario Bellini sofas can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $3,520 and can go as high as $32,956, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $12,056.
Questions About Mario Bellini Sofas
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    Whether or not a Mario Bellini sofa is comfortable is largely a matter of personal opinion. However, many people find that the designer's sofas provide plush support due to their thick backrests and seat cushions. With its sumptuous tufted cushions, seductive low profile and endless rearrangement possibilities, the Bellini–designed Camaleonda sofa, for example, is infinitely flexible and can double as sculpture in any interior. Shop a selection of Mario Bellini furniture on 1stDibs.