Giuseppe Rivadossi approached furniture as a cabinetmaker and sculptor, allowing construction and material to determine the character of an object. This coffee table, made by Officina Rivadossi in the 1970s, brings that approach into a compact architectural form.

Design

Crafted from solid Slavonian oak, the table consists of four substantial legs connected by an exposed timber structure. Rivadossi leaves the interlocking joints visible rather than concealing them, turning the method of construction into part of the design. Finger joints articulate the upper corners, complemented by elongated carved details along the legs and projecting wooden connections at the lower frame.

Two clear glass plates introduce a lighter element to the solid oak construction. A thick upper plate forms the tabletop, leaving the structure beneath fully visible, while a second glass level creates a practical surface for books and objects. Between both planes sits an elaborate wooden raster composed of crossing slats and repeated wedge-shaped elements. Seen through the glass, this geometric grid gives depth to the centre of the table and changes character according to the viewing angle.

Rivadossi founded Officina Rivadossi in the Brescia area, developing furniture in which traditional woodworking was brought into dialogue with contemporary form. Wood remained central to his practice, with joints, grain and hand-worked surfaces treated as visible elements rather than hidden technical necessities. Here, the transparency of the glass gives particular emphasis to that construction.

A low, architectural coffee table in which the craftsmanship remains readable from every side. Its open composition works particularly well within a seating area where the object can be viewed in the round.

Condition

The table remains in very good vintage condition, showing light traces of use consistent with its age. The Slavonian oak has developed a warm patina and both glass plates remain well preserved.