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Heraldic tray by Piero Fornasetti, mounted as a table on a Foldes base, 1950s
€3,200Bid from €2,880
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Made in Italy in the 1950s, this extraordinary tray by Piero Fornasetti represents one of the highest points of his decorative production. Entirely made of screen-printed and hand-painted iron, the piece depicts a visual encyclopedia of power and history: a grid of heraldic coats of arms belonging to the world's rulers, each meticulously illustrated with vibrant colors and subtle nuances, arranged in a regular composition that evokes the idea of a universal catalog. The heraldic theme, so dear to Fornasetti for its dual symbolic and ornamental nature, is reinterpreted here with irony and graphic precision, merging the language of ancient engraving with the modernity of industrial printing. Each coat of arms tells a fragment of identity, a territory, a dynasty: together they build a global, almost utopian vision, where the cartography of power transforms into total decorative art. The tray, supported by a light folding wooden base covered in red velvet and adorned with decorative tassels, combines functionality and theatricality, perfectly embodying Fornasetti's aesthetic, which transforms every object into a poetic microcosm. The patina of the metal surface enhances the charm of a piece that today represents a rare and precious testimony to 1950s Italian design, suspended between art, craftsmanship, and visual culture. An object of collection par excellence, this tray encapsulates Piero Fornasetti's ability to create a universe of encyclopedic curiosity, intellectual irony, and timeless beauty: a celebration of knowledge translated into art. The wooden base showed woodworm damage which has been professionally treated with microwave technology in a specialized center, with full documentation and certification attached to the piece. Product Name: "Araldiche" Tray by Piero Fornasetti mounted as a table, 1950 Designer: Piero Fornasetti Year of Design: 1950s Style: Mid-century Italian design, decorative and surreal Main Materials: Screen-printed and hand-painted iron; folding wooden base covered in red velvet with decorative tassels. Distinctive Design/One: The top features a grid of heraldic coats of arms of the world's rulers, meticulously illustrated with vibrant colors and subtle shading. The work combines the graphic precision of ancient engraving with the modernity of industrial printing, creating an encyclopedic and ironic vision of power and history. Dimensions: Height 52 cm Length 65.5 cm Depth 45.5 cm Comfort: Lightweight and functional thanks to the folding structure, it allows versatile use as a side table or decorative tray. Typical Use: Decorative and collectible item, ideal as a side table or as a scenic accent in refined interiors. Design Icons: A quintessential example of Piero Fornasetti's poetic universe, which transforms everyday objects into aesthetic and conceptual microcosms that blend art, craftsmanship, and visual culture. Versatility: Suitable for both classic and contemporary environments, its strong decorative identity allows it to integrate perfectly into eclectic and sophisticated interiors. Current Condition: Excellent general preservation. The wooden base, previously affected by woodworms, has been professionally treated with microwave technology in a specialized center, with relevant documentation and certification attached. The metal surface shows an aged patina that enhances its charm and authenticity. Additional Notes: Please note that this item is in excellent vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present, which do not affect its functionality. We invite you to consider these characteristics as part of its character before purchase. Piero Fornasetti (Milan, ) was one of the most original and visionary artists and designers of 20th-century Italy. A painter, engraver, decorator, and tireless collector of images, he built an unmistakable aesthetic universe where art, craftsmanship, and design coexist in a poetic balance. Through recurring motifs such as the enigmatic face of Lina Cavalieri, classical architecture, maps, or musical instruments, Fornasetti transformed everyday objects into works of art, blending graphic rigor with surreal irony. His production - ranging from furniture to plates, from screens to trays - is characterized by artisanal precision and encyclopedic imagination, making him a lasting icon of Italian design in the world today. Additional details: - Brand: Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti - Style: Mid-century Italian design - Style: decorative - Style: surreal - Period: 1950s - length: 65.5 cm
Specifications
CategorySide tablesConditionVery goodColorsMulti ColorMaterialWood, Velvet, IronNumber of items1Brand / designerFornasettiHeight52 cmWidth66 cmDepth46 cmSeller locationConversano, ItalyDelivery optionsDelivery or pickup
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ProfessionalConversano, ItalyOn Whoppah since October 2024 • 0 sales