Masterpieces of Italian Design by Design Doc

Article by Martin Gibson – @embody3d @martingibson – 17.03.2011

Masterpieces of Italian Design published by White Star showcases some of the great masterpieces of the Italian Design Industry in the modern era. The book features 2-3 pages per an exhibit and features really nice ultra large serif fonts making it a great gift for even younger children or non-designers. For each design there is a succinct one paragraph description making the book seem very museum like which is a successful way of presenting the information. It features beautiful full colour pages of the works, professionally photographed and has full-page black and white photos of the artists equally as well presented. Some would call the few dozen or so artist pictures a bit of a waste of space, but I actually argue the contrary. I think it is fascinating comparing the artist photos to their pieces. Some artists showcase their physical beauty, others stare idly at the camera, others look tremendously serious, others playful which is expressed in their work. Others show mystery and intrigue, others show deep thought and aspiration, others look like the photo has been overlay staged with multiple props, and other designers look completely caught off guard. Although not all of these portraits aren’t meant to be taken as literally as I have interpreted them to be but they certainly add an unintended fascination to all the works.

Being a book about Italian design it does feature a lot of furniture and lighting pieces, so it provides a really nice historical perspective in these areas. The pieces range back really no longer than 50 years so don’t expect any Leonardo Da Vinci works here. Despite the title being ‘Masterpieces of Italian Design’ it really could be rephrased ‘Masterpieces of Italian Beauty’ as these pieces speak more for stylish aesthetics rather than practicality at times. Take for example Zabro-Zanotta’s 1985 furniture collection which looks like sharpened spears will impale you as you sit down. Not to mention there are a couple of monstrosities like Poltrona Frau’s 2007 Trunk Mobile Bar which makes even the 70’s appear dated; and isn’t Philippe Starck French?! But beside these anomalies it is a very good book and interesting collection which showcases works from well-known design companies like Kartell, but also exhibits some of the lesser known works that may take you by surprise.

[rating:3.5]