Bambole daybeds by Mario Bellini for BBItalia

A matching pair of original 1980s tan leather Bamboletto daybeds from Le Bambole Collezioni designed by Italian architect Mario Bellini and made by B&BItalia.

Designed by/launched when The Bambole Collection came into being from 1970-72, first was the armchair (Bambola), then two (Bibambola), and three seater (Tribambola) sofas, a daybed (Bamboletto) and chaise (Bamboletti) and finally an ottoman. Produced by Italy’s leading contemporary Design manufacturer, B&BItalia the collection epitomises everything about the 1970s design and popular culture.

Inspiration In his quest for a new approach to upholstered furniture, Architect Mario Bellini (b1935 Milano) was initially inspired upon seeing some full woven shopping bags slumped on a table. After experimenting with prototypes the idea morphed into the archetypical idea of a large free-form floor cushion without internal support or feet but its shape defined via a precise geometry of stitch lines. He described the seating as “a soft safe place”.

Fabrication The early prototypes had an internal ‘skeleton’ of fabric wads bound in hessian and shaped by elastic membranes. In the 1980s B&BItalia developed a responsive memory foam which allowed for consistency in the production of the Collection. This thick tan leather is the original, natural and organic upholstery as specified by Mario Bellini.

Hidden Features Both come with optional slim upholstered mattress pads for day use (as shown) plus two thicker mattresses for sleeping.

Design Consigned Stylist Be partners in recline on these iconic daybeds. Ideal for the home library, taking in a view, some Binge watching, or to impress as guest room beds. The older they get, the more valuable they become.

DC Collectors Le bambole Collection took the prestigious Compasso d’Oro Award in 1979. Authentic early 1980s originals, one owner, made in Italy by B&BItalia. Extremely collectible, most likely the only authentic originals in Australia. Nicely aged to vintage ‘perfection’.

Mark of authenticity Both wear B&BItalia seam tags.

DC Insider The Bambole Collection was launched with deliberately provocative photography by a young Oliviero Toscani, featuring jean clad, topless model, Donna Jordan. The Campaign was immediately censored which, of course had a very positive effect on sales. The sofas and armchairs were re released in 2007 with another attention seeking campaign by Toscani. View HERE. 

Condition Report Excellent vintage condition in the original leather.

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