Big thanks to Matthew for spotting a real gem on eBay – this Eero Saarinen-designed Knoll Tulip dining table and four chairs.
Designed as 'as an exercise in clarifying form', the design of the Tulip table and chairs is still ahead of its time, over 50 years since its debut. This is an authentic reissue, with this particular set issued by Knoll to Cube (Manchester's architecture and design gallery) to commemorate its opening in 1998. The item was later acquired by Graeme Russell, its founding director, who is selling it now.
According to the seller, the table (diameter 920mm) is in good condition with a few scratches, while two of the four chairs are in need of some repair, but are perfectly functional. So not perfect, but at the current auction price of £500 for the set, well worth a bid.