Country Living Appraises A 1950s Franco Albini Pouf: What Is It Worth? (PHOTOS)

We're very excited to syndicate one of our favorite columns, 'What Is It? What Is It Worth?' from one of our favorite magazines, Country Living. All text and images below are provided by Country Living. Get ready to be surprised!

"A friend recently asked if my living room ottoman was a Franco Albini original. Is it? And who is he?" - B.H., Madison, Wisconsin

Franco Albini Pouf

Our antiques specialist, Helaine Fendelman, appraises your finds and collectibles.

The late Italian architect Franco Albini (1905–1977) began his career in 1928, apprenticing for famed Milanese architect Gio Ponti. Two years later, Albini set out on his own, designing furniture that married modern aesthetics with traditional Italian handicraft. After World War II, when quality timber and metals were scarce, he turned to inexpensive, readily available materials, including bamboo and rattan—ultimately producing his most iconic works. Though knockoffs of these woven pieces abound, this rattan ottoman appears to be the real deal. Originally intended to accompany Albini's Margherita chair (a circular seat with a high, slightly angled back), your pouf is still worth a good deal on its own.

What It's Worth: $700

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