Gigi Radice

GIGI RADICE (Milan, 1924–2005) for MINOTTI.
Two-seater sofa. Italy, 1950s.
Wood, brass, and fabric upholstery.
Reupholstered in Rubelli fabric. Frame and padding restored.
In good condition. Shows slight signs of wear.
Measurements: 89 x 138 x 83 cm; seat height: 41 cm.

This sofa dates from the early years of the collaboration between Gigi Radice and Minotti, a partnership that played an important role in the firm’s transition from a more classical style of production to a decidedly modern design language.

The continuous volume of the upholstered body is a hallmark of its contrast with the slender, tapered legs, which clearly raise the structure off the floor and accentuate the dynamic character of its contours. The current Rubelli fabric, in a light beige tone with a subtle weave, draws attention to this design characterized by sweeping curves and restrained proportions. The piece has been reupholstered, and both the frame and the interior padding have been restored.

Gigi Radice was an architect and designer active primarily in the Brianza region during the 1950s and 1960s, closely associated with Minotti at a decisive moment in the firm’s evolution. In addition to designing furniture, he designed the Minotti factory and, later, the family residence in Meda. The significance of this collaboration was highlighted by the company itself in 2018, when it selected several of Radice’s designs from the Minotti Historical Archive for the special “Albert & Ile” collection, created to mark the company’s 70th anniversary.