Tito Agnoli for Mobilier International

TITO AGNOLI (Lima, 1931–Milan, 2012) for Mobilier International.
“9000” modular sofa. Rare edition, 1975.
Black cowhide leather.
In very good condition.
Measurements: 60 x 140 x 90 cm.
The “9000” modular sofa stands out for its flexible design and its aesthetic of low, enveloping forms—a hallmark of Italian design experimentation in the 1960s and 1970s. Composed of independent modules, it allows for various configurations and adapts the furniture to the needs of the space. Its generous proportions and clean-lined structure combine comfort, versatility, and a striking sculptural presence. The original design was developed by Tito Agnoli for Arflex in 1969, under the name Novemila. Its modular system responds to a new conception of the contemporary living room, in which the seat ceases to be a fixed piece and becomes a configurable unit.
Born in Lima, Tito Agnoli moved to Italy to study in the years following World War II. He studied painting under the guidance of Mario Sironi. In 1949, he enrolled at the Polytechnic University of Milan to study architecture. Specializing in industrial design, Agnoli interned with the renowned designers Gio Ponti and Carlo De Carli after graduating. Starting in the 1950s, Agnoli worked in the field of furniture design, creating pieces for major Italian brands such as Arflex, Bonacina, Mattero Grassi, Poltrona Frau, and Ycami. He also made significant contributions to the field of lighting design. Among his most notable designs are the Arflex Model 9000 Sofa (1969); the sculptural P3 Lounge Chair and the wicker P3S Lounge Chair, the stainless steel Sorbet Chair and the Punto e Virgola Chair for Pierantonio Bonacina (all from the 1960s); and the Korium Chair for Matteo Grassi (1970s). In 1974, Agnoli began collaborating with Poltrona Frau, designing numerous leather sofas and armchairs that were commercially very successful. His reputation was further enhanced by two nominations for the Compasso d’Oro award, and he won a gold medal at the Neocon exhibition in Chicago in 1986.