Diego Giacometti’s Iconic Table Headlines The Design Sale

Diego Giacometti (1902–1985) was the younger brother of the world-renowned artist Alberto Giacometti. The brothers worked closely together for most of their lives and shared a studio in Paris. After Alberto’s passing in 1966, Diego developed an increasingly independent artistic voice and established himself as a significant artist in his own right.

His work is characterised by a poetic formal language in which animal motifs – particularly cats – play a central role. In Giacometti’s furniture, they are not mere decoration but integrated elements that contribute to the rhythm and balance of the form. His furniture and sculptures combine functionality with artistic presence in a way that makes them highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

“Diego Giacometti created furniture that feels present, like sculptures you can use in everyday life. The combination of function and artistic expression makes his work unique and highly desirable,” says Ulrika Ruding.

“Berceau”, modèle aux chats

The table in question, “Berceau”, modèle aux chats, dates from the early 1970s and belongs to Giacometti’s iconic series of so-called cradle tables. The model is distinguished by its gently curved, cradle-like side supports holding an open, airy tabletop, crowned by the artist’s signature motif – stylised cats.

“The cats are not just decorative; they form an active part of the table’s structure, creating an almost living dynamic in the room,” says Ulrika Ruding.

From Personal Gift to International Collectible

The first cradle tables were created around 1963, originally for film producer Raoul Lévy, and were never mass-produced, with only a very limited number made.

The example now being presented has a well-documented provenance and has been part of a private Swedish collection since the 1980s. Ahead of the auction, the table has been examined by leading experts in Paris, who confirmed its authenticity.

“Provenance is absolutely central in this type of sale. Here we have an object with a long and clearly documented history, which further enhances its appeal on the market,” says Ulrika Ruding.

A Work at the Intersection of Art and Furniture

Diego Giacometti’s furniture and sculptures exist at the boundary between art and function. Each piece is a work of art in itself, where form, choice of materials, and playful animal motifs create a unique presence in a space. His furniture offers not only visual pleasure but also everyday usability – a perfect balance of sculptural aesthetics and function.

“International demand for Diego Giacometti’s furniture remains extremely strong. We are seeing a clear shift, with collectors seeking objects that sit at the intersection of design and fine art,” says Ulrika Ruding.

“This is not just a piece of furniture. It is also a sculpture – a work of art to live with, equally at home in a domestic setting as in a museum environment.”