As part of the Thursday May 28, 2020 auction, the PIASA auction house is offering ten lots by Italian designer Gio Ponti for sale by auction. Armchairs, lamps, chests of drawers: this selection highlights the breadth and diversity of his work.
The emblematic founder of the magazine Domus and a major player in the Milan Triennial, the Lombard designer and architect Gio Ponti was considered, as early as the mid-1930s, as one of the most prominent figures of Italian modernity. Gio Ponti's studies at the Milan Polytechnic were interrupted by the First World War. He resumed his training in 1918 and will continue it in 1921.
He then met Emilio Lancia and Mino Fiocchi, with whom he joined forces to set up an architectural firm. Appointed artistic director of one of the most important Italian porcelain manufacturers, Gio Ponti completely renews the iconographic repertoire by rationalizing the production system of the pieces, while maintaining their high quality of execution. His first pieces were presented at the first Biennale of Decorative Arts in Monza in 1923 and then in 1925 at the International Exhibition of Decorative Arts, where he was awarded the Grand Prize for Ceramics.
Gio Ponti promotes Italian creation in all its forms. In 1927, he became a member of the management committee of the Monza biennials, where he advocated a rapprochement between crafts and industry. Throughout his career, he was keen to select materials capable of diversifying the rendering of textures and colours.
Gio Ponti (1891-1979)
Modèle 2129 Série 'Modern by Singer'
Commode Noyer
Edition Singer & Sons Etiquette de l'éditeur, circa 1950
Estimation : 25 000 / 35 000 euros.
The "Model 2129" stands out for the simplicity of its shapes. The geometrical treatment of its drawers animates the front with great success. Published by Singer & Sons around 1950, this piece of furniture is supported by four legs whose delicacy contrasts with the massiveness of the whole. It is estimated at between 25,000 and 35,000 euros.
Gio Ponti (1891-1979)
Model 811
Armchair Walnut and fabric
Cassina Edition, circa 1957
Estimation : 12 000 / 18 000 euros
The "Model 811" armchair, also made of walnut wood, was made around 1957. It is estimated at between 12,000 and 18,000 euros. Its sculptural forms are a sign of the incredible modernity of its creator.
An ardent defender of the revival of Italian design in the post-war context, he was the author of a work presented on numerous occasions, such as in 1950 as part of the "Italy at Work" exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum and in 2018 at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris.
