Original vs reproduction
Saarinen Tulip Table
Part of Saarinen's Pedestal Collection for Knoll: a single cast-aluminum stem on a round base, topped with laminate, wood or marble.
| Designer | Eero Saarinen |
|---|---|
| Year | 1957 |
| Authorized makers | Knoll |
What it costs today
All listings →Original / VintageSample
Vintage original
$6,390
delivered · $5,900 + $490 ship
- Period
- UNKNOWN
- Authenticity
- High — marks described
- Condition
- excellent
- Shipping
- 12–20 days
- Source
- Chairish (sample)
Reproduction / NewSample
Reproduction
$529
delivered · $529 + $0 ship
- Period
- Current production
- Authenticity
- Reproduction
- Condition
- new
- Shipping
- 5–8 days
- Source
- Reproduction retailer (sample)
The practical differences
A reproduction is not an original and is not equivalent to one. It can still be the right purchase — just know what you're buying.
| Materials | Authentic: cast aluminum base; tops in laminate, veneer or natural marble. |
|---|---|
| Construction | Weighted cast base for stability; marble tops are sealed. |
| Dimensions | Standard round and oval sizes from Knoll; sizes on vintage pieces follow those specs. |
| Warranty | Knoll warranty on new; none on vintage. |
| Provenance | Labels and marble origin documentation. |
| Finish | Original finishes may show wear at the base rim. |
| Expected longevity | Bases are durable; marble requires resealing. |
| Price | Marble tops add significantly; reproductions are a fraction of authorized pricing. |
How to recognize an authentic example
- Heavy cast-aluminum base with a fused finish
- Knoll label under the base or top
- Base and stem are separate from the top, attached with a mounting plate
What reproductions usually change
Reproductions frequently use fiberglass, ABS or thin spun-metal bases, and cultured or composite stone tops.