Livio De Marchi Trompe L’oeil Carved Pine Pedestal Table | Italy 1970s
Livio De Marchi Trompe L’oeil Carved Pine Pedestal Table | Italy 1970s
Knot what it seems…
Livio De Marchi carved this pedestal (or side table) entirely from pine, transforming the humble wood into pure illusion. Every ripple, crease, and draped fold is hand-rendered to mimic fabric in motion.
Part of his famous Tavolino con tovaglia series, it’s a subtly subversive piece, a brilliant blend of genuine craft and conceptual wit. The light honey finish lets the grain breathe, revealing knots that slyly wink to the object’s true nature.
De Marchi, often called the maestro of illusion, emerged in the 1970's with a surrealist approach to functional forms, applying Pop art irreverence to sculpture. The result is an object that is undeniably furniture, yet completely sculpture.
Condition: Very Good
Key Features & Benefits
• Authentic Livio De Marchi piece, Italy, 1970s
• Carved pine with natural honey finish
• High-realism trompe l’oeil technique mimicking draped fabric
• Functions as pedestal, side table, or standalone sculpture
• Bridges sculpture and furniture — a collectible surrealist statement
• Ideal focal point for design-led interiors
• Dimensions: 16ʺW × 16ʺD × 19.5ʺH
16ʺW × 16ʺD × 19.5ʺH
Add a chapter of surrealism to your collection
Black & Gold Condition Guide
✨ We believe every piece tells a story — here’s how we describe the chapters they’ve lived so far:
Mint / Like New Practically time-traveled. Looks as though it’s never been used. Crisp, clean, and flawless.
Excellent Well-preserved with only the most minor signs of age (think a faint scratch or two, visible only if you squint). Structurally sound and show-stopping.
Very Good Loved and cared for. Some small signs of wear — maybe light surface marks, gentle fading, or a touch of patina — but nothing that distracts from its beauty or function.
Good Has earned its character. Noticeable wear such as scratches, discoloration, or finish loss, all consistent with age and use. Still fully functional and fabulous.
Well-Loved / As-Is This one has stories to tell. Expect visible flaws or wear (chips, cracks, missing parts), but still worthy for display, repurposing, or as a collector’s gem.
All Sales Final on Vintage Scores!
Since these finds are true blasts from the past, we can't offer returns on vintage items. But fret not, treasure hunters! We meticulously curate our collection, so you can be sure you're getting pieces in good to mint condition, with only the coolest signs of wear that tell their unique story. Check out the pics to get a closer look!
