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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.

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Creator: Memphis Group
Martine Bedin 1st Edition Super Lamp, Memphis Milano, Postmodern, Italy, 1980s
By Martine Bedin, Memphis Group
Located in Vienna, AT
Early first edition postmodern Super lamp, designed by Martine Bedin in 1981 for Memphis Group. To use a rolling table or floor lamp. From the first edition...
Category

1980s Italian Memphis Group Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

1980s Memphis Milano Black and Blue Ceramic Teapot by Marco Zanini for Bitossi
By Memphis Group, Marco Zanini
Located in Aci Castello, IT
A Memphis Milano black and blue ceramic tea pot designed by Marco Zanini for Bitossi in perfect conditions. The tea pot by Marco Zanini is a stunning piece of functional art. It embo...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Titicaca Porcelain Vase, by Matteo Thun from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Matteo Thun, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Titicaca porcelain vase was originally designed by Matteo Thun in 1982, winks an eye to the largest lake in South America, its design follows a line of experimentation with a dis...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Fortune Side Table, by Michele De Lucchi for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Memphis Milano, Michele de Lucchi
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

Hyatt Metal and Wood Table, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Hyatt table designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1984 for Memphis, in metal and laminated wood. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in 1917. In 1939 he gradu...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Sol Glass Fruit Bowl, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
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

Terminus Floor Lamp 'EU 220 Volts', 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, Terminus floor lamp with Structure in painted sheet steel. One bulb 12V, 50W., designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Martine Bedin is an industrial...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Steel

Nara Serving Table, by Shiro Kuramata for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Shiro Kuramata
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

California Woolen Carpet by Nathalie Du Pasquier from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Nathalie du Pasquier, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The California hand woven wool carpet was originally designed in 1983 by Nathalie Du Pasquier for Memphis Milano. Nathalie du Pasquier was born in Bordeaux, France, in 1957. She has lived and worked in Milano since 1979. Until 1986 she worked as a designer and was a founder member of Memphis for which she designed many textiles, carpets, furniture and objects. When the group broke up in 87, painting became her main activity. 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 info: - Dimensions: W 98.5, D 70.25 inches - Materials: Wool - Pricing: Prices do not include VAT. - Purchased products are shipped with forms of authenticity by Memphis Milano. Carpets and Rugs as well, contain a sewed on...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wool

Lettuce White Ceramic Dinner Plate, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Lettuce ceramic dinner plate was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass, in 1985, as part of a series of decorative plates. The playful names of th...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Piccadilly Table Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Gerard Taylor for Memphis Milano Collect
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Gerard Taylor
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Piccadilly Table Lamp made in metal and plastic laminate, designed in 1982, by Gerard Taylor. Gerard Taylor gr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Arizona Woolen Carpet, by Nathalie Du Pasquier from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Nathalie du Pasquier, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Arizona handwoven wool carpet, was originally designed in 1983 by Nathalie Du Pasquier for Memphis Milano. Nathalie du Pasquier was born in Bordeaux, France, in 1957. She has lived and worked in Milano since 1979. Until 1986 she worked as a designer and was a founder member of Memphis for which she designed many textiles, carpets, furniture and objects. When the group broke up in 87, painting became her main activity. 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 info: - Dimensions: W 98.5, D 70.25 inches - Materials: Wool - Pricing: Prices do not include VAT. - Purchased products are shipped with forms of authenticity by Memphis Milano. Carpets and Rugs as well, contain a sewed on...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wool

Santa Fe Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Matteo Thun, Memphis Group
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

Piccadilly Table Lamp 'EU' 220 Volts, by Gerard Taylor from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Gerard Taylor, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired, Piccadilly table lamp made in metal and plastic laminate, designed in 1982, by Gerard Taylor. Gerard Taylor ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Celery Serving Plate, by Michele De Lucchi from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Memphis Milano, Michele de Lucchi
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Celery serving plate was originally designed by Michele De Lucchi in 1985. Michele De Lucchi was born in 1951 in Ferrara and graduated in architecture in Florence during the period of radical and experimental architecture he was a prominent figure in movements like Cavart, Alchymia and Memphis. His architectural designs have been mainly for office buildings in Japan, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. He has taken care of numerous art and design exhibitions and has planned buildings for museums as Triennale di Milano, Palazzo delle Esposizioni di Roma and Neues Museum...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Mizar Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
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

Terminus Floor Lamp 'US 110 Volts', by Martine Bedin from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Martine Bedin, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Terminus floor lamp with Structure in painted sheet steel. One bulb 12V, 50W., designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Martine Bedin is an industrial d...
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

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

Super Blue Table Light USA 110 Volts, by Martine Bedin for Memphis Milano Coll.
By Memphis Milano, Martine Bedin, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired, Super Blue table or floor lamp in fiberglass, designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Color options also include: Yellow, White with Colored Sockets, and all White. EU VERSION 220v ALSO AVAILABLE IN ANOTHER LISTING 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

Tomato Ceramic Serving Platter, by Michele De Lucchi from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Michele de Lucchi, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Tomato Serving platter was originally designed in 1985 by Michele De Lucchi in ceramic, for Memphis Milano. Here we are offering this item by Memphis Group themselves. Michele De L...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Santa Fe Porcelain Ceiling Lamp EU 220 Volts, by Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Matteo Thun, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the Santa Fe Porcelain Ceiling Lamp with EU wiring accessibility, designed in 1985 by Matteo Thun. The Lamp is made in porcel...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Indivia Ceramic Plate, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Indivia ceramic dinner plate was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass, in 1985, as part of a series of decorative plates. The playful names of the design items are a reminder o...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Altair Glass Flower Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
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 Yellow EU 220V Table or Floor Light, 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 yellow table or floor lamp in fiberglass, designed in 1981, by Martine Bedin. Color options also include, blue, white with colored sockets, and...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass

Private Lamp der Künstlers II by Franz West for Metamemphis Milano 1989
By Franz West, Memphis Group
Located in NICE, FR
This "Privatlampe des Künstlers II," designed by Austrian artist Franz West for MetaMemphis Milano in 1989, is an avant-garde lamp combining functional design with conceptual artistr...
Category

1980s Italian Brutalist Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Iron

Oceanic Table Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Michele De Lucchi for Memphis Milano Collec
By Memphis Milano, Michele de Lucchi, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the US wired (110v), Oceanic Table Lamp made in metal and glass, designed in 1981, by Michele De Lucchi. EU Version 220v availabl...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Treetops Floor Lamp 'EU' 220 Volts, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the EU wired 'Treetops' floor lamp, designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 in metal with halogen bulb. 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...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Deneb Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Deneb vase in multicolored glass was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982 for Memphis. Signed “E.Sottsass per Memphis Milano”. Ettore Sottsass was born in Innsbruck in...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Euphrates Vase, Designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in Beirut, LB
The Euphrates vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for Memphis Milano 1981-1988. A classic by Sottsass, the Euphrates porcelain vase is part of three 'rivers' vase...
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Santa Ana Ceramic Ceiling Lamp EU 220 Volts, by Matteo Thun for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Memphis Milano, 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

Nilo Vase, Designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for the Collection Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass
Located in Beirut, LB
The Nilo vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for Memphis Milano 1981-1988. Produced by Memphis in 2013-2014. A classic by Sottsass, the Nilo porcelain vase is par...
Category

1980s Italian Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Italian modern Black marble granite console Belvedere by Cibic for Memphis 1980s
By Aldo Cibic, Memphis Group
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian modern black marble, wood, serena stone and granite console Belvedere by Aldo Cibic for Memphis, 1980s Iconic console mod. Belvedere with  demi-lune shaped top in black marbl...
Category

1980s Italian Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Stone, Marble, Granite

Memphis, Barbara Radice 1984 First Edition
By Memphis Group, Barbara Radice, Ettore Sottsass
Located in CA, CA
First edition, published by Rizzoli, 1984 ‘Research, Experiences, Result, Failures and Successes of New Design’ Founded in 1981 by designer Ettore Sottsass, the Italy-based Mem...
Category

1980s American Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Paper

TROMPE L'OEIL 1980 Memphis Three Dimensional Bookends In Steel & Lacquer
By Memphis Group
Located in Miami, FL
A pair of Memphis period bookends. This is a pair of unusual bookends created in America during the Memphis artistic period, back in 1980. They were crafted in solid cut steel and d...
Category

1980s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Steel

Postmodern Original Splendid Floor Lamp by Martine Bedin, Italy, 1980s
By Memphis Group, Martine Bedin
Located in Renens, CH
Original period (not a re-edition) Splendid floor lamp, designed and produced by Martine Bedin in 1981 for the Memphis Group, features a painted metal construction with a semi-spheri...
Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Two Chairs Mod. "First" by Michele de Lucchi for Memphis Milano, Ready to Ship
By Memphis Group, Michele de Lucchi
Located in Madrid, ES
Set of two chairs mod. "First Chair" designed by Michele de Lucchi for Memphis Milano, with structure in metal, seat backrest and armrests in lacquered wood in different colors. Ital...
Category

1980s Italian Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Post Modern Memphis Milano, 1980s Oceanic Table Lamp by Michele de Lucchi
By Memphis Group, Michele de Lucchi
Located in Renens, CH
Authentic vintage Oceanic table lamp by Italian architect Michele de Lucchi for the Memphis movement in the early 1980s. De Lucchi was one of the co...
Category

1980s Italian Post-Modern Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

21 Clesitera Glass Vase by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
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

Sirio Glass Flower Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Sirio glass vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1982. Signed on the edge of the Stand: "E. Sottsass per Memphis Milano”. For further information please see authen...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

33 Neobule Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass
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

Baykal Flower Vase, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Marco Zanini, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Baykal Flower Vase was originally designed by Marco Zanini in 1982. Marco Zanini was born in Trento in 1954. He graduated in architecture at the University of Florence and perfects...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

12 Amaltea Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Amaltea Vase was designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is part of the “Amaltea Glass” collection. Made in Murano. Signed “E.Sottsass per Memphis”. Signed on the base. Et...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Glass

Laurel Table Lamp (EU) 220 Volts, by Peter Shire for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Milano, Peter Shire, Memphis Group
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

Amazon Cabinet, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Memphis Milano, 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

Kyoto Metal and Terrazo End Table, by Shiro Kuramata for Memphis Milano Collect.
By Memphis Group, Shiro Kuramata, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Kyoto end table in metal and terrazzo, designed in 1983 by Shiro Kuramata. Shiro Kuramata studied architecture at Tokyo Polytechnic in Tokyo unti...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Metal

Rainbow design Wood Night Lamp by Kiener Zürich, in Style of Memphis Group, 1980
By Memphis Group
Located in Hagenbach, DE
Triple shade opal glass and yellow body flush mount by AKA, 1960s, Germany Sculptural very elegant rare design flush mount. It is very ideal and suitable for all living areas....
Category

1980s Swiss Space Age Vintage Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Wood

Tigris Porcelain Vase by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass
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

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

Santa Monica Ceiling Lamp USA 110 Volts, by Matteo Thun from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Matteo Thun, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Here you are shown the Santa Monica Ceiling Lamp with US wiring accessibility, designed in 1983 by Matteo Thun. The ceiling lamp-shade is in ceramic, and lamp's bulb is not included....
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Victoria Ceramic Flower Vase, by Marco Zanini from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Marco Zanini, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Victoria Flower vase in ceramic with ceramic flower, was originally designed in 1982 by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano. Marco Zanini was born in Trento in 1954. He graduated in ar...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

13 Malide Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano
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

25 Astimelusa Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Astimelusa Glass Vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1986. The vase is part of the “Vetri Glass” collection, and made out of blown Murano glass. Signed “E.Sottsass...
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 Group, Martine Bedin, Memphis Milano
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

Broccoli Fruit Bowl, by Marco Zanini from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Memphis Milano, Marco Zanini
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Ceramic three-level fruit bowl originally designed by Marco Zanini in 1985 for Memphis Milano. The three geometrical shapes in three colors complete the idea of a trilogy. Marco Zan...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

32 Ananke Glass Vase, by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Milano, Memphis Group, Ettore Sottsass
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Ananke 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

Nilo Porcelain Vase by Ettore Sottsass from Memphis Milano
By Ettore Sottsass, Memphis Milano, Memphis Group
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Nilo vase was originally designed by Ettore Sottsass in 1983 for Memphis Milano 1981-1988. A classic by Sottsass, the Nilo porcelain vase is part of thre...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Madras Table, by Nathalie du Pasquier, from Memphis Milano
By Memphis Group, Nathalie du Pasquier, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
The Madras table has a beautiful contrasting laminate pattern top, designed in 1986 by Nathalie du Pasquier. Nathalie du Pasquier was born in Bordeaux...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Laminate

Potato Ceramic Tray, by George Sowden from Memphis Milano
By George Sowden, Memphis Group, Memphis Milano
Located in La Morra, Cuneo
Potato Ceramic tray with metal handles, was originally designed in 1985 by George Sowden for Memphis Milano. Red and white porcelain for a roun...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Memphis Group Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Alpha Centaury Glass Flower Vase, by Marco Zanini for Memphis Milano Collection
By Memphis Group, Marco Zanini, Memphis Milano
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

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 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 ExpertAugust 26, 2024
    The difference between Memphis and Art Deco is that the terms refer to two different design styles. Art Deco emerged in the 1920s, and its pieces often flaunt bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs and ornamental details, such as mirrored finishes and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Named after the Memphis Group, which formed in 1980, Memphis design emphasizes freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors. Some people describe it as Art Deco meets Pop art. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Art Deco and Memphis design furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    What the ’80s design style is called varies, as multiple styles are associated with the decade. Some people refer to the designs of the period using the generic term postmodern. Pieces featuring bright colors, geometric shapes, strong patterns and abstract designs may be classified as Memphis style. Synthwave style drew inspiration from the new wave and punk music scenes, including technology-inspired motifs, such as grid lines and vibrant neon colors. Another 1980s design style is commonly referred to as ’80s Cute. Pioneered by designer Lisa Frank, it typically features whimsical imagery, such as rainbows, hearts and fast food. Find a large collection of 1980s furniture and decorative objects on 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 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 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 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 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 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.
  • 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.

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