81 - ANTONIO CITTERIO (Meda, Italy, 1950) and PAOLO NAVA (Seregno, Italy, 1943) for B&B Italia.

ANTONIO CITTERIO (Meda, Italy, 1950) and PAOLO NAVA (Seregno, Italy, 1943) for B&B Italia. “Diesis” sofa, designed in 1979. Aluminum and steel frame, upholstered in black leather. Features the B&B Italia manufacturer’s mark stamped on the leather. In good overall condition. The leather has an attractive patina. Slight signs of wear. Measurements: 83 x 260 x 92 cm; seat height: 40 cm. Designed in 1979 by Antonio Citterio and Paolo Nava for B&B Italia, the “Diesis” sofa is one of the defining pieces of contemporary Italian design, renowned for its innovative combination of technology, elegance, and comfort. Its design represents a modern interpretation of the traditional sofa, in which the structure takes center stage and is fully integrated into the piece’s aesthetic expression. The model stands out for its exposed metal frame, crafted from cast aluminum and steel components, which supports the generous cushions upholstered in leather. The lightness of the frame is a hallmark of the composition, contrasting with the generous volume of the cushions, which creates a balanced composition between architectural precision and comfort. Its design, with clean lines and high-quality materials, reflects the designers’ attention to both technical innovation and construction details. Antonio Citterio and Paolo Nava began their collaboration in 1972, jointly developing major projects for the Italian furniture industry. Citterio, an architect trained at the Polytechnic University of Milan, has worked for firms such as B&B Italia, Vitra, Kartell, and Flos, and has received two Compasso d’Oro awards. His work is represented in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. Paolo Nava, also a graduate of the Polytechnic University of Milan, has pursued an independent career since 1982, collaborating with firms such as Flexform, Boffi, and Arflex.