Massimo Papiri coffee table

This rare rotating coffee and bar table was designed by Massimo Papiri and produced by Mario Sabot in Italy during the 1970s. It is an outstanding example of Italian radical design, merging sculptural form with functionality in a way that reflects the experimental spirit of the decade. Papiri’s work often explored futuristic aesthetics, and this piece demonstrates his approach through both its geometry and use of materials.

The table is constructed from a combination of polished steel, black lacquered wood, and plexiglass. Its circular form is interrupted by a sculptural cut-out that reveals a rotating bar compartment concealed within the body. The bar interior includes fitted spaces for bottles and glasses, integrated beneath a section that lifts and rotates smoothly. An additional feature is the built-in interior lighting, designed to illuminate the bar when opened, adding both theatricality and function. The cylindrical raised section at the center reinforces the architectural quality of the design while serving as an additional compartment.

The surface presents a refined contrast between the reflective steel band and the deep black lacquered top, while the plexiglass partition inside emphasizes the modernist material play. The piece remains in good vintage condition with signs of use and patina consistent with age, contributing to its authenticity as a functional design object from the period.

Papiri’s designs for Mario Sabot stand within the broader Italian design movement of the 1970s, where furniture often served as both utility and conversation piece, bridging art and industrial production. This table is not only a practical furnishing but also a manifestation of an era that challenged traditional boundaries in design.

Dimensions: width 136 cm (53.5 in), depth 120 cm (47.2 in), height 45.5 cm (17.9 in)