500
(years): how long the Italians have been front-runners in the field of furniture design. A recent publication edited by history professor Enrico Colle, 500 Years of Italian Furniture: Magnificence and Design (2009), showcases this remarkable evolution in taste and design. The catalogue to accompany the exhibition of the same name hosted by Milan’s Palazzo Reale from 22 April-21 June 2009, this beautifully illustrated text celebrates ingenious creation and craftsmanship across the courts of Italy and Europe alongside its parallels in architectural design, with mentions of icons such as Gianlorenzo Bernini.
While you may not be able to afford to own one of these magnificent pieces for your own collection, here’s something that is more budget-friendly: a membership with Italian Art Society. Annual memberships start at $20!
We are happy to announce that we are making progress toward our goal: at last tally, we are at 489 members! Help Italian Art Society meet and surpass its #Campaignfor500 membership goal by joining or renewing your lapsed membership today. Learn more about the Italian Art Society and their mission to support the study all things Italian here.
Franco Albini, Florenza Chair, 1939
Giuseppe Maggiolini, Table, late 1700s, walnut and rare wood veneer and inlay. Los Angeles: J. Paul Getty Museum, 95.DA.81
Aldo Rossi, Furniture designs for Bruno Longoni