Bruno Munari, for Robots

BRUNO MUNARI (Milan, 1907–1998) for ROBOTS.
“Biplano” coffee table, 1972.
Black-lacquered metal and smoked glass.
Folding frame and swivel casters.
In good condition. Shows signs of use, scuffs, and isolated areas where the lacquer has worn off, as well as slight marks on the glass.
Measurements: 50 x 51 x 51 cm.

The “Biplano” table clearly exemplifies Bruno Munari’s interest in achieving maximum functionality through a visually and structurally minimalist design. Two square panels of smoked glass are suspended above a lightweight tubular frame fitted with casters, while the diagonal supports that stabilize the assembly introduce a distinct graphic element. The ability to remove the glass panels and fold the frame also makes mobility and space-saving integral parts of the design itself.

The transparency of the glass panels allows one to simultaneously perceive the different levels and the metal framework that supports them, so that the table changes its visual configuration depending on the viewpoint. This reduction to strictly necessary elements is fully consistent with Munari’s exploration of simple, versatile objects capable of fulfilling a function without sacrificing formal experimentation.

Bruno Munari pursued an exceptionally interdisciplinary career spanning art, design, graphic arts, publishing, and education. Initially associated with Second Futurism, from the 1930s onward he explored movement, perception, and the possibilities of new visual languages—interests he also applied to industrial design. His work is part of collections such as those of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, which holds numerous pieces and projects by the artist, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris, where various design objects and kinetic works are housed.