A. & T. Scarpa ‘Basilian 1’ Tables, B&B Italia, Italy, 1970s
Tobia Scarpa, Afra Bianchin Scarpa, Compagnia delle Filippine, B&B

Pair of 1970s “Basilian 1” rattan tables by Afra & Tobia Scarpa for B&B Italia. Refinished frames, smoked glass; two corner chips. Each 51×85×85 cm.


Specifications:



  • Designer: Afra & Tobia Scarpa

  • Manufacturer: B&B Italia, Compagnia delle Filippine division

  • Country/Period: Italy, 1970s


  • Materials: stained rattan modular panels with cord bindings; original smoked glass tops

  • Conditions: Good vintage condition; frames professionally refinished with even patina and minor wear; two corner chips to the glass (one more visible); replacement glass available on request

  • Dimensions: Each H 51 × W 85 × D 85 cm

  • Literature: R. Masiero, M. Maguolo"Afra e Tobia Scarpa architetti/architects 1959 – 1999, Tobia Scarpa architetto/architect 2000 - 2009", Electa, 2009


  • Price: €2,500 / pair

  • Shipping: Contact us for a quote


Designed in 1974 by Afra & Tobia Scarpa and produced by B&B Italia from 1975, the “Basilian 1” program explored rattan as an industrially rational, modular system. To support this line B&B set up the Compagnia delle Filippine, completing components overseas and assembling in Italy to optimise shipping and consistency. The series relied on standardized rattan panels in multiple sizes to generate a family of furnishings. Some models featured metal plating fixed with copper tacks; these tables retain their original smoked glass tops.


The pair offered here presents low, rectilinear volumes built from rattan panels with tight cord bindings at the corners. The dark, uniform stain and gridded sides create a refined interplay with the flush glass surfaces, reading as calm architectural cubes that function well as coffee tables or generous side tables. Proportions (85 × 85 cm footprint; 51 cm height) lend a balanced presence without visual heaviness.


Technically and historically, the Basilian 1 program is significant for translating craft materials into an engineered system—modular parts, consistent finishes, and flat-pack efficiency—while retaining the tactile quality of cane. The tables show expected signs of age: professionally refinished frames with light patina and small abrasions; two corner chips to the glass (one more noticeable). Replacement glass can be supplied on request.


For collectors of Italian 1970s design, the set encapsulates the Scarpas’ measured synthesis of material intelligence and modern typology, and an important chapter in B&B Italia’s research into new production models. A remarkable example of Italian design merging functional intelligence and aesthetic refinement.


See more pieces by Afra & Tobia Scarpa in our inventory.