The artwork titled “Malabar Bookcase, Memphis” is a notable piece created by the artist Ettore Sottsass in 1981. This work is categorized under the genre of design and distinguishes itself as an emblematic representation of the Memphis design movement.
The artwork showcases a striking and unconventional design, characterized by its asymmetry and whimsical use of geometric shapes. It features a combination of materials including a patterned base, a series of cantilevered shelves, and bold, colorful accents. The bookcase’s structure integrates a variety of forms, such as rectangles, semi-circles, and leaning planes, culminating in an eclectic and modernistic appearance. Noteworthy elements include vividly colored support columns, with one prominent turquoise tubular column adding visual interest and balance. The overall composition of the bookcase reflects the distinctive postmodern design ethos championed by Sottsass and the Memphis group, challenging traditional perspectives on furniture design with a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic.