Saarinen Elliptical Tulip Side Table, c. 1960 – Oiled Walnut Tops & Cast-Iron Base

Saarinen Elliptical Tulip Side Table, c. 1960 – Oiled Walnut Tops & Cast-Iron Base.

An exceptionally rare early production of Eero Saarinen’s iconic Tulip side table, this circa-1960 example retains its original cast-iron pedestal base and oiled walnut elliptical top. Conceived to eliminate the “slum of legs,” Saarinen’s single-stem design presents a clean, sculptural profile that remains as modern today as when first introduced. The factory black-enamel base and warm matte walnut surface are stamped with the original Knoll Associates Park Avenue showroom label on the underside, confirming provenance to Knoll’s flagship New York gallery.

Key Features

• Designer: Eero Saarinen for Knoll Associates

• Date: circa 1960, early cast-iron pedestal version

• Base: Solid cast iron with original black enamel finish

• Top: Oiled walnut with factory-applied matte seal

• Label: “Knoll Associates • Park Avenue” paper label affixed under tabletop

• Form: Elliptical top on a single-stem support—signature Tulip profile

Dimensions

• Height: 21″ (53.3 cm)

• Width: 22″ (55.9 cm)

• Depth: 14½″ (36.8 cm)

Condition

Very good original vintage condition consistent with gentle use over six decades. The walnut surface shows light, even patina and minor handling marks; the cast-iron base retains strong white enamel with only minimal edge wear. The structure is fully sound, and the table sits level without wobble.

Collector’s Note

Early cast-iron–based Tulip tables are increasingly scarce, as most were later produced with aluminum stems or replaced altogether. The intact Park Avenue label ties this piece directly to Knoll’s New York showroom, making it a standout acquisition for serious collectors of mid-century modern and Saarinen’s groundbreaking furniture designs.