“The Structures Tremble” Table 1979 by Ettore Sottsass

Ettore Sottsass, a monumental figure in the design world, profoundly influenced the trajectory of postmodern design. In 1976, he co-founded Studio Alchymia in Milan, an avant-garde think tank that challenged the prevailing modernist dogma that emphasized functionality. Studio Alchymia’s creations were not merely products but prototypes and unique exhibits that pushed the boundaries of design.

The Structures Tremble Table: A Paradigm Shift

The Structures Tremble Table, designed by Sottsass in 1979, epitomizes the radical philosophy of Studio Alchymia. This table transforms everyday, banal materials into an extraordinary art object, exemplifying the ironic and playful qualities that would later define Memphis Group furniture. The table’s design is a statement against the rigidity of modernist principles, showcasing Sottsass’s unique vision.

Materials and Design Elements

The Structures Tremble Table is constructed using glass and steel tubes, materials reminiscent of the Bauhaus movement. However, Sottsass infused these elements with undulating forms and pastel colours, giving the table an anti-modernist twist. This blend of materials and forms creates a dynamic tension, symbolizing the tremble in the table’s name.

• Glass and Steel Tubes: Referencing Bauhaus, yet subverted by Sottsass’s playful approach.
• Undulations and Pastel Colors: Adding an anti-modernist and whimsical touch.

Sottsass’s Departure from Studio Alchymia

Despite the groundbreaking work, Sottsass parted ways with Studio Alchymia after just one year. The split was primarily due to differing views on mass production. While Alchymia’s creations were unique and artisanal, Sottsass envisioned a broader impact through mass-produced designs, a philosophy he fully embraced with the Memphis Group.

Legacy and Influence

The Structures Tremble Table marked a significant point in Sottsass’s career and laid the groundwork for the Memphis Group’s ethos. The table’s design philosophy inspires contemporary designers, highlighting the importance of integrating irony, playfulness, and artistic expression into functional objects.

Key Takeaways

• Studio Alchymia’s Vision: Rebellion against modernism, focusing on prototypes and unique exhibits.
• Sottsass’s Innovation: Transforming everyday materials into art objects with ironic qualities.
• Bauhaus Influence: Subverted through undulating forms and pastel colours.
• Mass Production Philosophy: A point of divergence leading to Sottsass’s departure.
• Continued Legacy: Inspiring contemporary design through a blend of art and functionality.

The Structures Tremble Table remains a testament to Ettore Sottsass’s revolutionary approach to design, which blended irony with functionality and challenged the norms of his time. With its unique combination of materials and forms, this piece encapsulates the essence of postmodern design and continues to be a source of inspiration in the design world.

Source

The Metropolitan Museum of Art. (n.d.). Table, 1979, designed by Ettore Sottsass (Italian, born Austria, 1917–2007). Retrieved July 1, 2024, from https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/484945

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