Vintage McGuire Two-Tier Glass Coffee Table, Attributed to Lyda Levi 1960's

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Bamboo coffee table attributed to Lyda Levi for McGuire, 1960s Bamboo frame coffee table with two 3/8” glass shelves.
This … Read more Bamboo coffee table attributed to Lyda Levi for McGuire, 1960s Bamboo frame coffee table with two 3/8” glass shelves.
This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer. It has no attribution mark and no official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history.

Lyda Levi
Lydia Levi was an extraordinary figure who left an indelible mark in the field of design and applied arts. Born in 1922, she experienced a profoundly significant journey during World War II. As a victim of Nazi persecution, she chose to seek safety in Switzerland to escape imminent threats. After the end of the conflict in 1945, Lydia Levi returned to Milan, the city she had left with great pain and difficulty.
Back in her hometown, Lydia Levi passionately engaged in the Exodus operation. This humanitarian initiative aimed to help Holocaust survivors migrate to Palestine. Her involvement in this cause demonstrated her remarkable spirit of solidarity and determination.
In 1946, during a period of rebirth for Italy, architect Piero Bottoni was appointed as the Special Commissioner of the Milan Triennale by the National Liberation Committee. He chose Lydia Levi to collaborate in organizing the 8th Triennale, recognizing her valuable skills and expertise in the field of design and applied arts.
The Milan Triennale was a prestigious platform for emerging talents in the world of art and design. Lydia Levi’s participation in the 8th Triennale brought her recognition and visibility, propelling her into a prominent figure in the industry.
Following this experience, Lydia Levi was appointed as the head of the craft section of the Public Relations Office for the Marshall Plan. She held this position with dedication and passion from 1948 to 1953. During this period, she contributed to the organization of exhibitions and events related to craftsmanship, showcasing her competence and commitment to the sector.
During a trip to the United States in 1956, Lydia Levi met Elinor and John McGuire, creators and producers of a renowned line of rattan furniture. This encounter deeply influenced her perspective, leading her to develop her own furniture line known as “Lyda Levi-McGuire.” This line combined new trends experienced in America with Italian artisanal experience.
The Lydia Levi-McGuire furniture line achieved great success due to its ability to blend innovative design elements with Italian artisanal craftsmanship. This entrepreneurial venture was just one of the many challenges in her career dedicated to design and applied arts, showcasing her adaptability and ability to anticipate trends.
Lydia Levi-McGuire gained recognition in the field of international design thanks to her versatile career and innovative creations. Her contribution has left an indelible mark on applied arts, blending tradition and modernity into a captivating and unique style. See less