Pair of beige lacquered wooden vase-shaped columns, circa 1980

Lacquered vase-shaped columns – Smania House, 1980s

This pair of columns possesses a unique architectural presence, combining the geometric rigor of the base with the organic curve of the vase-shaped capital. Produced by Smania, it embodies the minimalist approach of 1980s Italian design, a period of transition between postmodern aesthetics and a return to clean lines. The beige lacquer finish lends the whole a refined simplicity, perfectly suited to interiors with character.

The room

These two columns make a distinct style statement: a strong vertical structure and a pronounced shoulder emphasizing the distinction between shaft and vase. The beige lacquered wood develops a soft patina, characteristic of high-quality lacquering from the 1980s. This decorative piece of furniture falls into the category of interior architectural elements, particularly sought after for structuring open spaces or creating focal points in galleries and reception rooms. The regularity of the proportions and the impeccable finish testify to masterful craftsmanship. The vase shape, borrowed from the classical repertoire of architecture, embodies here a contemporary interpretation of the Ionic capital.

Origins & Manufacturing

Maison Smania, an Italian company specializing in high-end furniture and interior design elements, produced this piece around 1980. The wood, treated and lacquered in beige, boasts a high-quality finish typical of Italian production in the last third of the 20th century. This period corresponds to a time of creative effervescence in Italy, where industrial design coexisted with refined craftsmanship. The generous dimensions (H182 × W21,5 × D21,5 cm / 71,7 × 8,5 × 8,5 in) indicate an architectural purpose rather than mere decoration. Each column required meticulous turning and finishing to achieve this harmonious proportion.

Conservation state

The pair is described as being in perfect condition. The beige lacquer has a smooth, even surface, free of scratches, peeling, or any significant damage. The wooden structure shows no play, cracks, or warping, ensuring dimensional stability and optimal preservation. The impeccable overall condition suggests careful use and proper storage, preserving the integrity of the finish and the geometry of the pieces. These columns require no restoration and are ready for immediate installation in their intended setting. The light patina of the lacquer, a result of age, in no way detracts from the functional and aesthetic perfection of these objects.

The team's opinion The Auctionlab

This pair of columns embodies a thoughtful vision of 1980s Italian furniture design, far removed from decorative excess. Maison Smania mastered this balance between structural rigidity and formal lightness. The beige lacquer, an understated shade, allows for seamless integration into a variety of contexts: Scandinavian minimalism, Italian postmodernism, or contemporary interiors requiring discreet architectural verticality. At 182 cm high, these columns provide structure without overwhelming the space. Their impeccable condition makes them valuable collector's items: ideal for galleries, framing a painting, or punctuating a corridor, they possess that rare quality of a functional object transformed into a defining ornament.