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Italian Post Modern Ceramic

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Pair of Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Salad Servers
Pair of Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Salad Servers

Pair of Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Salad Servers

Located in San Diego, CA

A nice pair of Italian post-modern ceramic salad servers, circa 1980s.

Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Serving Pieces

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2013 by Fornasetti, 2013
Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2013 by Fornasetti, 2013

Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2013 by Fornasetti, 2013

By Fornasetti

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian post-modern Ceramic wall calendar plate 2013 by Fornasetti, 2013 Wall calendar plate of 2013, limited edition, in ceramic.

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2012 by Fornasetti, 2012
Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2012 by Fornasetti, 2012

Italian Post-Modern Ceramic Wall Calendar Plate 2012 by Fornasetti, 2012

By Fornasetti

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian post-modern Ceramic wall calendar plate 2012 by Fornasetti, 2012 Wall calendar plate of 2012, limited edition, in ceramic.

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Decorative Post-Modern Ceramic Vase, circa 1980.
Italian Decorative Post-Modern Ceramic Vase, circa 1980.

Italian Decorative Post-Modern Ceramic Vase, circa 1980.

By Gio Ponti

Located in Brussels, BE

Nice decorative post-modern vase, circa 1980, Italy. Round black glazed ceramic, three nickeled metal tubes.

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Metal

Post Modern Ceramic Owl Made in Italy
Post Modern Ceramic Owl Made in Italy

Post Modern Ceramic Owl Made in Italy

Located in New York, NY

Attractive white on white ceramic owl, marked Made in Italy A 66. This example is in very good original condition showing only light signs of age, normal and consistent with age.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Hollywood Regency Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Boccato, Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic Vase for Sicart Italy
Boccato, Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic Vase for Sicart Italy

Boccato, Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic Vase for Sicart Italy

By Boccato Gigante Zambusi

Located in Meer, VAN

Rare and large post modern vase by Marilena Boccato, Gian Nicola Gigante en Antonio Zambusi for Sicart Cartigliano.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Memphis style. Post-Modern handmade ceramic floor lamp, Italy, 1980s
Memphis style. Post-Modern handmade ceramic floor lamp, Italy, 1980s

Memphis style. Post-Modern handmade ceramic floor lamp, Italy, 1980s

By Shiro Kuramata, Michele de Lucchi, Ettore Sottsass, George Sowden

Located in SANT ADRIÀ DE BESÒS, ES

Different types of black and white ceramic insulators have been used, joined with glue cement and a central metal stem, creating a sculptural and geometric structure totally Memphis ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

1969 Post Modern Blue Vetrochina Ceramic Italian Design Vase
1969 Post Modern Blue Vetrochina Ceramic Italian Design Vase

1969 Post Modern Blue Vetrochina Ceramic Italian Design Vase

By Fratelli Brambilla

Located in Aci Castello, IT

A blue vetrochina ceramic vase designed and manufactured in Italy in the Seventies, it's irregular shape and style, made him the winner the Andrea Palladio design prize in 1969.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Art Deco Revival. Post-Modern style ceramic sconces, Italy, 1980s
Art Deco Revival. Post-Modern style ceramic sconces, Italy, 1980s

Art Deco Revival. Post-Modern style ceramic sconces, Italy, 1980s

By Cerámicas BONDIA, Capo Di Monte, Bassano, Hispania CH

Located in SANT ADRIÀ DE BESÒS, ES

Art Deco Revival and Post-Modern style ceramic sconces, Italy, 1980s.

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Ceramic, Paint, Blown Glass, Art Glass

Boccato Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic for Sicart Italy
Boccato Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic for Sicart Italy

Boccato Gigante & Zambusi Post-Modern Ceramic for Sicart Italy

By Boccato Gigante Zambusi, Sicart

Located in Chicago, IL

Rare 1970s/80s Boccato Gigante Zambusi Archietti ceramic stamped 281 Italy for Sicart. A fine architectural ceramic example of Post Modernism / Memphis Minor chip along the bottom ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Pitchers

Materials

Ceramic

1980s Post Modern Gold and Black Ceramic Italian Vide Poche by Capodimonte
1980s Post Modern Gold and Black Ceramic Italian Vide Poche by Capodimonte

1980s Post Modern Gold and Black Ceramic Italian Vide Poche by Capodimonte

By Capodimonte

Located in Aci Castello, IT

This piece is as functional as it is decorative. It is ideal for an entryway table, coffee table, or desk to hold keys, coins, or small objects. It also works beautifully as a standa...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Ceramic

Mid Century Italian Post Modern Bitossi Ceramic Planter or Vase after Sottsass
Mid Century Italian Post Modern Bitossi Ceramic Planter or Vase after Sottsass

Mid Century Italian Post Modern Bitossi Ceramic Planter or Vase after Sottsass

By Goodfellow & Sons, Bitossi

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A funky post modern design from Bitossi and produced by Goodfellow circa 1970's. Very much in the style of Ettore Sottsass. It features all ceramic form with beautiful bright colors.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardini...

Materials

Ceramic

Hollywood Regency and Post-Modern style ceramic table lamp, Italy, 1980s
Hollywood Regency and Post-Modern style ceramic table lamp, Italy, 1980s

Hollywood Regency and Post-Modern style ceramic table lamp, Italy, 1980s

Located in SANT ADRIÀ DE BESÒS, ES

Large Hollywood Regency style ceramic table lamp, Italy, 1980s. Tibor shapped as a large hand-painted vase with striking colors.

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Hollywood Regency Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Pino Castagna Italian 1980s Post Modern Art Pottery Bowl
Pino Castagna Italian 1980s Post Modern Art Pottery Bowl

Pino Castagna Italian 1980s Post Modern Art Pottery Bowl

By Pino Castagna

Located in New York, NY

A great Italian Post Modern art pottery bowl by noted artist , Pino Castagna . Signed. Biography: Pino Castagna was born in Castelgomberto, Italy, in 1932, and studied in the sch...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Colorful Post-Modern Table Lamp, Italy, 1980s
Colorful Post-Modern Table Lamp, Italy, 1980s

Colorful Post-Modern Table Lamp, Italy, 1980s

By Oluce, Vico Magistretti

Located in Vienna, AT

A beautiful Italian postmodern table lamp / side lamp from the 1980s. The lamps base is made of ceramic with a light-grey shiny glaze. It still has its original conical lampshade wit...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Italian Modern Glazed Ceramic Lamp
Italian Modern Glazed Ceramic Lamp

Italian Modern Glazed Ceramic Lamp

By Gaetano Sciolari, Leucos, Sciolari Lighting, Stilnovo

Located in Houston, TX

Italian Modern Glazed Ceramic Lamp. Offered is a lovely Italian organic modern shell shaped lamp realized with a beautiful gray glazed ceramic. Our sculptural Hollywood Regency lamp ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Post-Modern Ceramic Vases by Alessandro Mendini for Zanotta, 1986
Post-Modern Ceramic Vases by Alessandro Mendini for Zanotta, 1986

Post-Modern Ceramic Vases by Alessandro Mendini for Zanotta, 1986

By Alessandro Mendini

Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR

Post-modern ceramic vases by Alessandro Mendini for Zanotta, known as "Dealbata". We like the richness of the shapes, counterbalanced by the sobriety of the white enamelled porcela...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Post-Modern Ceramic Shelf in the shape of a half Greek Ionic capital, Italy 70s
Post-Modern Ceramic Shelf in the shape of a half Greek Ionic capital, Italy 70s

Post-Modern Ceramic Shelf in the shape of a half Greek Ionic capital, Italy 70s

Located in Roma, IT

We offer for sale a shelf capable of recalling the ancient glories of Greek art in an informal dimension such as that of your apartment. The "studio 65" among the major exponents of ...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Shelves

Materials

Ceramic

1970s Post Modern Blue Ceramic Vase by Rigon for Bertoncello
1970s Post Modern Blue Ceramic Vase by Rigon for Bertoncello

1970s Post Modern Blue Ceramic Vase by Rigon for Bertoncello

By Roberto Rigon, Bertoncello

Located in Aci Castello, IT

This 1970s Postmodern blue ceramic vase, designed by Rigon for Bertoncello, is an iconic example of Italian ceramic artistry during the era. The vase features a bold, sculptural form...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

A Memphis Milano Post-Modern Ceramic Vase By Marco Zanini for Bitossi
A Memphis Milano Post-Modern Ceramic Vase By Marco Zanini for Bitossi

A Memphis Milano Post-Modern Ceramic Vase By Marco Zanini for Bitossi

By Bitossi, Marco Zanini

Located in Aci Castello, IT

This Marco Zanini vase for Bitossi is a quintessential example of the Memphis Milano style, characterized by its bold colors, geometric shapes, and playful, innovative design. The va...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Post-Modern Missoni Table Lamp by Massimo Valloto, Italy, 1980s
Post-Modern Missoni Table Lamp by Massimo Valloto, Italy, 1980s

Post-Modern Missoni Table Lamp by Massimo Valloto, Italy, 1980s

By Missoni Home, Missoni

Located in Vienna, AT

An amazing colorful postmodern Missoni table or side lamp from the 1980s, designed by Massimo Valloto, executed by Ceramiche Viba, Bassano, Italy. This light has a conical unusual ce...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Vintage Paolo Marioni Sculptural Face Vase Made In Italy Post Modern
Vintage Paolo Marioni Sculptural Face Vase Made In Italy Post Modern

Vintage Paolo Marioni Sculptural Face Vase Made In Italy Post Modern

By Paolo Marioni

Located in Lake Worth, FL

This Paolo Marioni sculptural face vase is a unique addition to any collection. Made in Italy during the post-modern era, this vase showcases intricate details that make it a true wo...

Category

Late 20th Century American Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Mid-Century Modern Green Ceramic Swivel Table Lamp, 1960s, Italy
Mid-Century Modern Green Ceramic Swivel Table Lamp, 1960s, Italy

Mid-Century Modern Green Ceramic Swivel Table Lamp, 1960s, Italy

Located in Hagenbach, DE

Mid-Century Modern green ceramic swivel table lamp, 1960s, Italy. Lampshade is in good condition and very clean. This lamp works with E14 light bulb Wired and suitable to use w...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic penguin sculpture, Italy 1980
Ceramic penguin sculpture, Italy 1980

Ceramic penguin sculpture, Italy 1980

Located in Firenze, IT

Ceramic penguin sculpture Italy 1980 33H x 24 x 17 cm Conditions: perfect conditions

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Mounted Objects

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Modernist Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand
Italian Modernist Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand

Italian Modernist Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand

By Raymor, Bitossi, Marcello Fantoni, Fantoni, Aldo Londi

Located in Houston, TX

Italian Modernist Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand. This stunning Italian Modernist umbrella stand or vase was realized in Italy, circa 1970. This piece features a bold geometric patte...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Umbrella Stands

Materials

Ceramic

Angelo Mangiarotti Skipper Italian Black Ceramic Planter Centerpice Italy 1980s
Angelo Mangiarotti Skipper Italian Black Ceramic Planter Centerpice Italy 1980s

Angelo Mangiarotti Skipper Italian Black Ceramic Planter Centerpice Italy 1980s

By Angelo Mangiarotti, Skipper

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

Italian black glossy glazed ceramic planter or large centerpiece “Antera” model designed by Angelo Mangiarotti (Milan 1921 - 2012) and produced by Skipper made up of two elements tha...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Materials

Ceramic

Black ram / sheep ceramic sculpture, Italy 1980s
Black ram / sheep ceramic sculpture, Italy 1980s

Black ram / sheep ceramic sculpture, Italy 1980s

Located in Firenze, IT

Monumental Ram ceramic sculpture Italy 1980s Italian-made large ceramic reproduction of the famous 70s wooden ram by Kaija Aarikka, Finland. Scandinavian design. H 30 cm - 35 x 27...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Boho Italian Monumental Glazed Ceramic Snail
Vintage Boho Italian Monumental Glazed Ceramic Snail

Vintage Boho Italian Monumental Glazed Ceramic Snail

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Make a bold sculptural statement with this magnificent vintage Italian ceramic snail shell. Rendered on a monumental scale, this piece transforms a simple organic form into a work of...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Ferruccio Laviani Italian Ceramic "Rumba" Centerpiece Sculpture 1990s
Ferruccio Laviani Italian Ceramic "Rumba" Centerpiece Sculpture 1990s

Ferruccio Laviani Italian Ceramic "Rumba" Centerpiece Sculpture 1990s

By Ferruccio Laviani, Alessio Sarri Ceramiche

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

Italian glazed ceramic centrepiece sculpture, model Rumba, designed by Italian artist Ferruccio Laviani for workshop Alessio Sarri Ceramiche, Italy 1990s, no longer in production. Ma...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Centerpieces

Materials

Ceramic

Franco Bucci Italian Ceramic Bowl Centerpiece, 1970s
Franco Bucci Italian Ceramic Bowl Centerpiece, 1970s

Franco Bucci Italian Ceramic Bowl Centerpiece, 1970s

By Franco Bucci, Laboratorio Pesaro

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

Italian ceramic bowl centerpiece designed by Frano Bucci and produced by Laboratorio Pesaro with mark under base LP Bucci, Italy, 1970s Please note that the item is original of th...

Category

Vintage 1970s European Post-Modern Centerpieces

Materials

Ceramic

Alvino Bagni Large Ceramic Bowl, Italy, 1970s
Alvino Bagni Large Ceramic Bowl, Italy, 1970s

Alvino Bagni Large Ceramic Bowl, Italy, 1970s

Located in Stockholm, SE

Large ceramic bowl designed by Alvino Bagni and produced in Italy during the 1970s. Executed in glazed ceramic, the bowl features Bagni’s characteristic graphic decoration-warm terr...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Ceramic

Angelo Mangiarotti Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand, Italy, 1970s Design
Angelo Mangiarotti Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand, Italy, 1970s Design

Angelo Mangiarotti Glazed Ceramic Umbrella Stand, Italy, 1970s Design

By Fratelli Brambilla, Angelo Mangiarotti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Glazed ceramic umbrella stand by Angelo Mangiarotti for Ceramica Brambilla Milano c.1970s, Italy. The piece features an organic silhouette, with a sweeping, flared top that gracefull...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Umbrella Stands

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Italian Bellini Glazed Ceramic Geometric Vase
Vintage Italian Bellini Glazed Ceramic Geometric Vase

Vintage Italian Bellini Glazed Ceramic Geometric Vase

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Add a bold graphic element to your interior with this striking spherical vase by Bellini Italy. Masterfully crafted in Italy, this ceramic globe vessel features an intricate, hand-ap...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Decorative Hand Painted Italian Ceramic Large Fish Plate/Bowl by Vietri Italy
Decorative Hand Painted Italian Ceramic Large Fish Plate/Bowl by Vietri Italy

Decorative Hand Painted Italian Ceramic Large Fish Plate/Bowl by Vietri Italy

By Vietri

Located in San Diego, CA

Beautiful decorative hand-painted Italian large ceramic fish plate-bowl by Vietri Italy. The plate is in great condition with no chips or cracks and very light wear, large size can b...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Centerpieces

Materials

Ceramic

Large Italian Mid-Century Ceramic Leopard Sculpture, 1970s
Large Italian Mid-Century Ceramic Leopard Sculpture, 1970s

Large Italian Mid-Century Ceramic Leopard Sculpture, 1970s

Located in Autonomous City Buenos Aires, CABA

Large Italian Mid-Century Ceramic Leopard Sculpture, 1970s Striking hand-painted Italian ceramic sculpture depicting a leopard in a dynamic, mid-prowl pose. Crafted in the 1950s–196...

Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, Hollywood Collection Ceramic Bowl, Italy, ca. 1980s
Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, Hollywood Collection Ceramic Bowl, Italy, ca. 1980s

Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, Hollywood Collection Ceramic Bowl, Italy, ca. 1980s

By Ettore Sottsass

Located in Weesp, NL

Ettore Sottsass for Bitossi, Hollywood Collection Ceramic Bowl, Italy, ca. 1980s Dimensions: Ø 22 cm (8.66 in.) x H 18 cm (7.09 in.) A striking ceramic bowl designed by Ettore Sott...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl or Sculpture, Italy
Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl or Sculpture, Italy

Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl or Sculpture, Italy

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1970s. This ashtray / catchall is made in glazed ceramic. It may show slight traces of use since it's vintage, but it can be considered as in perfect original condit...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Postmodern White Ceramic Catchall or Bowl
Italian Postmodern White Ceramic Catchall or Bowl

Italian Postmodern White Ceramic Catchall or Bowl

Located in Miami, FL

Postmodern white ceramic catchall, Italy.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Ceramic

Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl - Centerpiece by Bertoncello, Italy
Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl - Centerpiece by Bertoncello, Italy

Brown Glazed Ceramic Trinket Bowl - Centerpiece by Bertoncello, Italy

By Bertoncello

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1970s. It is made in glazed ceramic and it perfectly expresses the sinuosity of Bertoncello's ceramics. This is a vintage piece, therefore it might show slight traces ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Centerpieces

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Ettore Sottsass Italian Ceramic Pedestal Bowl for BitossiBlack and Blue
Vintage Ettore Sottsass Italian Ceramic Pedestal Bowl for BitossiBlack and Blue

Vintage Ettore Sottsass Italian Ceramic Pedestal Bowl for BitossiBlack and Blue

By Ettore Sottsass, Bitossi

Located in Troy, MI

Vintage Ettore Sottsass "Alzata Piccola" centerpiece bowl for Bitossi Italy 1997 Round ceramic footed vessel in cobalt blue and black glazes with matte white center Signed to under...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern Ceramic Tea or Coffee Pot from Pagnossin, Italy, 1980s
Postmodern Ceramic Tea or Coffee Pot from Pagnossin, Italy, 1980s

Postmodern Ceramic Tea or Coffee Pot from Pagnossin, Italy, 1980s

Located in Hamburg, DE

Postmodern Ceramic Tea or Coffee Pot from Pagnossin, Italy, 1980s, in Very Good conditions. Designed 1980 to 1989 This piece has an attribution mark. Additional information: Materia...

Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Tea Sets

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern Rimini Blue Ceramic Fish Money Box by Bitossi, Italy
Postmodern Rimini Blue Ceramic Fish Money Box by Bitossi, Italy

Postmodern Rimini Blue Ceramic Fish Money Box by Bitossi, Italy

By Bitossi

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1970s. This is a Rimini blue lacquered ceramic money box by Bitossi, one of the most known Italian ceramic company that was founded in 1921 in Montelupo, a city near ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Toys and Dolls

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern Orange Yellow Glazed Ceramic Vase, Italy
Postmodern Orange Yellow Glazed Ceramic Vase, Italy

Postmodern Orange Yellow Glazed Ceramic Vase, Italy

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1970s. This orange yellow vase is made in glazed ceramic. This is a vintage set, therefore they might show slight traces of use, but they can be considered as in excel...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Sculptural Italian sideboar in Oak with ceramic and brass details, Italy, 1960's
Sculptural Italian sideboar in Oak with ceramic and brass details, Italy, 1960's

Sculptural Italian sideboar in Oak with ceramic and brass details, Italy, 1960's

By Adrien Audoux and Frida Minnet

Located in CASTENRAY, NL

Sculptural Italian sideboard with geometric detailing. The sideboard is placed on sleek, tapered legs that give the design its openness. These legs add to the sculptural character of...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Post-Modern Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Italian Postmodern Memphis Era Baldelli Ceramic Centerpiece Vase
Italian Postmodern Memphis Era Baldelli Ceramic Centerpiece Vase

Italian Postmodern Memphis Era Baldelli Ceramic Centerpiece Vase

By Bitossi, Baldelli

Located in San Diego, CA

Majestic classic 1980's postmodern Italian large ceramic vase , in a 2 tone glossy finish with the bottom spreckles , signed Baldelli Italy .

Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Handmade Ceramic Poodle Sculpture by Maker Bassano, Italy, 1980s
Handmade Ceramic Poodle Sculpture by Maker Bassano, Italy, 1980s

Handmade Ceramic Poodle Sculpture by Maker Bassano, Italy, 1980s

By Bassano

Located in SANT ADRIÀ DE BESÒS, ES

Ceramic poodle figure from Bassano, Italy, 1980s. White glazed ceramic with golden details. Totally timeless piece. Very much in the style of the Spanish ceramic creations of Manises...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Blue Lacquered Ceramic Vase by Lavenia Ascribable to Guido Andlovitz, Italy
Blue Lacquered Ceramic Vase by Lavenia Ascribable to Guido Andlovitz, Italy

Blue Lacquered Ceramic Vase by Lavenia Ascribable to Guido Andlovitz, Italy

By Guido Andloviz, Lavenia

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

This dark blue lacquered ceramic vase ascribable to Guido Andlovitz, produced by Lavenia, Italy, 1970s. It is a vintage piece, therefore it might show slight traces of use, but it c...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Whimsical Pair of Fish Italian Ceramic salt & Pepper shakers Gold &Silver Finish
Whimsical Pair of Fish Italian Ceramic salt & Pepper shakers Gold &Silver Finish

Whimsical Pair of Fish Italian Ceramic salt & Pepper shakers Gold &Silver Finish

Located in San Diego, CA

Whimsical set of salt & Pepper fishes in porcelain gold and silver finish circa 1990's , made in Italy great table piece of conversation.

Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

"Tartaruga", Ceramic sculpture by Ugo La Pietra, Superego, Italy, 2006
"Tartaruga", Ceramic sculpture by Ugo La Pietra, Superego, Italy, 2006

"Tartaruga", Ceramic sculpture by Ugo La Pietra, Superego, Italy, 2006

By Ugo La Pietra

Located in VILLEURBANNE, FR

Ceramic sculpture "Tartaruga" by Ugo La Pietra, Superego Editions, Italy, 2006. Ugo La Pietra is an Italian designer and artist recognized for his innovative approach to design, com...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Post-Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Round White Ceramic Catchall by Ambrogio Pozzi with Hand Painted Details, Italy
Round White Ceramic Catchall by Ambrogio Pozzi with Hand Painted Details, Italy

Round White Ceramic Catchall by Ambrogio Pozzi with Hand Painted Details, Italy

By Michielotto Top Design, Ambrogio Pozzi

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1980s. This catchall is made in ceramic and features hand painted parts. It might show slight traces of use since it's vintage, but it can be considered as in excelle...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Vintage Hand-Painted Ceramic Woodpecker by Bepi Tay, Italy
Vintage Hand-Painted Ceramic Woodpecker by Bepi Tay, Italy

Vintage Hand-Painted Ceramic Woodpecker by Bepi Tay, Italy

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Giuseppe Tagliariol, known as Bepi Tay, was pupil of Giorgio de Chirico and a sculptor. Tay is above all known for his activity as a ceramist, which began in the second half of the ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern giraffe ceramic centerpiece / vide poche, ND Dolfi Italy, 1990s
Postmodern giraffe ceramic centerpiece / vide poche, ND Dolfi Italy, 1990s

Postmodern giraffe ceramic centerpiece / vide poche, ND Dolfi Italy, 1990s

By ND Dolfi

Located in Firenze, IT

Postmodern giraffe ceramic centerpiece / vide poche ND Dolfi Ceramiche d'Arte, Montelupo Italy, 1990s 19 cm H x 30 cm diam. Conditions: excellent consistent with age and use. no ...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Mounted Objects

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Glazed Ceramic Banana Sculpture (After Warhol) (After Maurizio Cattelan)
Italian Glazed Ceramic Banana Sculpture (After Warhol) (After Maurizio Cattelan)

Italian Glazed Ceramic Banana Sculpture (After Warhol) (After Maurizio Cattelan)

By Maurizio Cattelan, (after) Andy Warhol

Located in Round Top, TX

From the early 20th century, and before, the imagery of the humble banana has always captured our interest and attention. From Claes Oldenburg to Any Warhol and more recently, Mauriz...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Gilt and Blue Ceramic 1970s-1980s Box with Pois and Strap
Italian Gilt and Blue Ceramic 1970s-1980s Box with Pois and Strap

Italian Gilt and Blue Ceramic 1970s-1980s Box with Pois and Strap

Located in Varese, Lombardia

This vintage box is made from hand painted and gilt ceramic with a pois and strap relief decoration. it was designed and manufactured in Italy between the 1970s and the 1980s. The bo...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Ceramic

Italian White & Beige Glazed Ceramic 1970s-80s Cache Pot & Vase by Bucci
Italian White & Beige Glazed Ceramic 1970s-80s Cache Pot & Vase by Bucci

Italian White & Beige Glazed Ceramic 1970s-80s Cache Pot & Vase by Bucci

By Franco Bucci

Located in Varese, Lombardia

Set of vase and cache pot in glazed ceramic manufactured in Italy between the '70s and the 80s by the artisanal ceramic work Bucci. Brand new condition. Measures: Vase cm 19 H x 23...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Ceramic

Set of Two Ceramic Vases by SIC, Italy, 1970s
Set of Two Ceramic Vases by SIC, Italy, 1970s

Set of Two Ceramic Vases by SIC, Italy, 1970s

By Sicart

Located in Milan, IT

Italian 1970s ceramic vases by SIC. Bi-colored pieces with typical 1970s shapes.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Lacquered Ceramic Dessert Plate by Antonia Campi for Richard Ginori, Italy
Lacquered Ceramic Dessert Plate by Antonia Campi for Richard Ginori, Italy

Lacquered Ceramic Dessert Plate by Antonia Campi for Richard Ginori, Italy

By Antonia Campi, Richard Ginori

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1970s. This is lacquered ceramic dessert plate hand-crafted and marked by Richard Ginori Mondovì. Its design is by Antonia Campi. The number 92 probably refers to t...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Ceramic

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Recent Sales

Maroon Tea & Coffee Set Glazed Ceramic 1970's Italy
Maroon Tea & Coffee Set Glazed Ceramic 1970's Italy

Maroon Tea & Coffee Set Glazed Ceramic 1970's Italy

Located in Antwerpen, BE

Presenting a striking Maroon Tea & Coffee Set from 1970s Italy, crafted in glazed ceramic. This post-modern style set includes six pieces, each reflecting the distinctive design and ...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Tea Sets

Materials

Ceramic

White and Gold Ceramic Table Lamp, 1980s Italy
White and Gold Ceramic Table Lamp, 1980s Italy

White and Gold Ceramic Table Lamp, 1980s Italy

Unavailable

H 24.22 in Dm 18.71 in

White and Gold Ceramic Table Lamp, 1980s Italy

Located in Noorderwijk, BE

This weighty table lamp is made from white ceramic decorated with golden swirls, all with a high gloss finish. What's unique is that both the base and shade are ceramic. The brass la...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Massimo Vallotto for Viba Postmodern Italian Ceramic Lamp Pair
Massimo Vallotto for Viba Postmodern Italian Ceramic Lamp Pair

Massimo Vallotto for Viba Postmodern Italian Ceramic Lamp Pair

Located in Westfield, NJ

Rare and vintage circa 1980s Massimo Vallotto for Viba ceramic table. Made in Italy (Bassano del Grappa) and designed for Viba circa 1980s. Postmodern influenced designed base of omb...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

"Ufo" Cachepot Contemporary Ceramic.
"Ufo" Cachepot Contemporary Ceramic.

"Ufo" Cachepot Contemporary Ceramic.

Unavailable

H 5.91 in Dm 9.06 in

"Ufo" Cachepot Contemporary Ceramic.

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Contemporary styled ceramic cachepot, in a postmodern language. It comprises a base with three feet and some holes for air circulation. Inside this base another is fitted with an hol...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Materials

Ceramic

"Telescope", Glossy White Ceramic bottle
"Telescope", Glossy White Ceramic bottle

"Telescope", Glossy White Ceramic bottle

Unavailable

H 11.03 in Dm 5.52 in

"Telescope", Glossy White Ceramic bottle

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Glossy white ceramic bottle. Designed, made with a potter's wheel, and finished entirely by hand by author Giovanni Mengoni. The object has the ability to have function for tail serv...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Post-Modern Pitchers

Materials

Ceramic

Mediterranean Lands, Cooking Pots, Contemporary Ceramic.
Mediterranean Lands, Cooking Pots, Contemporary Ceramic.

Mediterranean Lands, Cooking Pots, Contemporary Ceramic.

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Handcrafted pot in ceramics. Flame-friendly. Inspired by the kitchen utensils used in Mediterranean cultures, particularly Italy. Its modern design makes it a decorative piece for yo...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Soup Tureens

Materials

Ceramic

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase Bolo Bowl
Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase Bolo Bowl

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase Bolo Bowl

Unavailable

H 9.06 in W 11.62 in D 11.62 in

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase Bolo Bowl

By Ettore Sottsass

Located in Lisbon, IT

Ettore Sottsass half green and half white ceramic vase Bolo bowl.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Marco Zanini for Bitossi White Hollywood Ceramic Cookie Container
Marco Zanini for Bitossi White Hollywood Ceramic Cookie Container

Marco Zanini for Bitossi White Hollywood Ceramic Cookie Container

By Marco Zanini

Located in Lisbon, IT

Marco Zanini for Bitossi white Hollywood ceramic cookie container. Round with 4 legs and a lid.

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

"Moon" Oil Bottle, Shiny White Glazed Ceramic, Decorative Object
"Moon" Oil Bottle, Shiny White Glazed Ceramic, Decorative Object

"Moon" Oil Bottle, Shiny White Glazed Ceramic, Decorative Object

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Shiny white glazed ceramic oil bottle, object made on the potter wheel, designed and handcrafted by author Giovanni Mengoni. Constant the search for actions that characterize artisa...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern More Dining and Entertaining

Materials

Ceramic

Opaque Glazed Ceramic Bottles "Bottles ll"
Opaque Glazed Ceramic Bottles "Bottles ll"

Opaque Glazed Ceramic Bottles "Bottles ll"

Unavailable

H 11.03 in Dm 3.15 in

Opaque Glazed Ceramic Bottles "Bottles ll"

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Set of decorative bottles made on the potter’s wheel with plastic relief. Work born in the eighties out of the author's research into traditional techniques and innovative ideas, a ...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Bottles

Materials

Ceramic

"Source" Table Oil, Vinegar, Salt and Pepper Ceramic Set
"Source" Table Oil, Vinegar, Salt and Pepper Ceramic Set

"Source" Table Oil, Vinegar, Salt and Pepper Ceramic Set

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Table oil vinegar and pepper set. A different way to decorate the table with an object that is both functional and celebratory. A sculptured object made of "Maiolica", with a certa...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern More Dining and Entertaining

Materials

Ceramic

"Touch Screen" Eclectic and Sculptural Object in Glossy White Ceramic.
"Touch Screen" Eclectic and Sculptural Object in Glossy White Ceramic.

"Touch Screen" Eclectic and Sculptural Object in Glossy White Ceramic.

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Eclectic and sculptural object in glossy white ceramic. Handmade can be applicable on the wall and can perform multiple functions, such as oil container and kitchen back, or purely a...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern More Dining and Entertaining

Materials

Ceramic

"Rhinoceros" Money Box in Contemporary Ceramic
"Rhinoceros" Money Box in Contemporary Ceramic

"Rhinoceros" Money Box in Contemporary Ceramic

Unavailable

H 11.03 in W 2.76 in D 11.03 in

"Rhinoceros" Money Box in Contemporary Ceramic

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Zoomorphic money box in ceramic, entirely handcrafted using a potter’s wheel. It is an ornamental piece in contemporary style. It blends in and harmonizes with any kind of interior d...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Jars

Materials

Ceramic

Glossy White Ceramic Bottles "Bottles l"
Glossy White Ceramic Bottles "Bottles l"

Glossy White Ceramic Bottles "Bottles l"

Unavailable

H 9.06 in Dm 2.37 in

Glossy White Ceramic Bottles "Bottles l"

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Set of decorative bottles made on the potter’s wheel with plastic relief. Work born in the 1980s out of the author's research into traditional techniques and innovative ideas, a syn...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Post-Modern Bottles

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern Art Pottery Ceramic Cachepot by Pino Castagna, 1980s
Postmodern Art Pottery Ceramic Cachepot by Pino Castagna, 1980s

Postmodern Art Pottery Ceramic Cachepot by Pino Castagna, 1980s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

This striking 1980s cache-pot was crafted by Italian artist Pino Castagna in his own workshop. Large in size, with a powerful abstract decor with vivid and bright oxide enamels. Sign...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Postmodern Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Postmodern Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

Postmodern ceramic vase by Pino Castagna, with a white glaze and a decor in a green-blue palette. This piece was manufactured in the artist's laboratoy in Costermano, near the Garda ...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

1981, Matteo Thun, "Nefertiti" Grey and Gold Ceramic Tea Set for Memphis Milano
1981, Matteo Thun, "Nefertiti" Grey and Gold Ceramic Tea Set for Memphis Milano

1981, Matteo Thun, "Nefertiti" Grey and Gold Ceramic Tea Set for Memphis Milano

By Matteo Thun, Memphis Group

Located in Paris, FR

Matteo Thun "Nefertiti" tea set, 1981, Memphis Milano Grey glazed ceramic, gold spots decoration Set includes teapot, three cups with saucers and sugar container. Glazed signatu...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

"Jar" Polished White Ceramic Table Lamp
"Jar" Polished White Ceramic Table Lamp

"Jar" Polished White Ceramic Table Lamp

Unavailable

H 13.39 in W 7.88 in D 5.91 in

"Jar" Polished White Ceramic Table Lamp

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

"Jar" polished white ceramic table lamp. Jar, is a table lamp made from a ceramic wheel, hand-shaped, finished in glossy white enamel. A decorative and luminous object, it has hori...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

"Station", Ceramic Composition of Glossy White Glaze with Plant Pots
"Station", Ceramic Composition of Glossy White Glaze with Plant Pots

"Station", Ceramic Composition of Glossy White Glaze with Plant Pots

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

A ceramic composition of glossy white glaze with plant pots, designed and handcrafted on the potter wheel by author Giovanni Mengoni. The base of the object has regular decorations o...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Planters and Jardinieres

Materials

Ceramic

"Pouf" Table Lamps Created in Ceramic
"Pouf" Table Lamps Created in Ceramic

"Pouf" Table Lamps Created in Ceramic

Unavailable

H 21.26 in Dm 10.24 in

"Pouf" Table Lamps Created in Ceramic

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

Luminous element in glazed terracotta, inspired by the forms and colors of deep-sea corals. Minimalist, it takes us back over the evolving forms of this trend. The technique used giv...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Pair of White and Blue Ceramic Bottles by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Pair of White and Blue Ceramic Bottles by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Pair of White and Blue Ceramic Bottles by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

Pair of ceramic bottles vase by Pino Castagna, with blue and white decor with a strong Mediterranean feeling. Enamel drippings and tactile finishing to one bottle. This pieces was ma...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Bottles

Materials

Ceramic

"Cico" Table Lamp, Glossy White Glazed Ceramic
"Cico" Table Lamp, Glossy White Glazed Ceramic

"Cico" Table Lamp, Glossy White Glazed Ceramic

Unavailable

H 7.88 in W 5.52 in D 11.42 in

"Cico" Table Lamp, Glossy White Glazed Ceramic

By Giovanni Mengoni

Located in Perugia, IT

"Cico", table lamp, made according to the rules of the traditional Italian majolica. made with a potter's wheel, and finished entirely by hand by author Giovanni Mengoni, and it en...

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Ugo La Pietra Ceramic Serving Plate White and Gold for Ceranima, 2000s
Ugo La Pietra Ceramic Serving Plate White and Gold for Ceranima, 2000s

Ugo La Pietra Ceramic Serving Plate White and Gold for Ceranima, 2000s

By Ugo La Pietra

Located in Firenze, IT

This plate with a foot was designed by Ugo La Pietra in white and golden ceramic and is part of the Scaramantici series designed in the 2000s. It is in the style of Giò Ponti. Bor...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Post-Modern Serving Pieces

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

One-off sculptural vase, part of the "Vases opened on one side" series crafted in the 1990s by Italian sculptor and ceramicist PIno Castagna. This vintage vase features vivid enamels...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

One-off sculptural vase, part of the "Vases opened on one side" series crafted in the 1990s by Italian sculptor and ceramicist PIno Castagna. This vintage vase features vivid enamels...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

One-off sculptural vase, part of the "Vases opened on one side" series crafted in the 1990s by Italian sculptor and ceramicist PIno Castagna. This vintage vase features vivid enamels...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s
Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

Postmodern sculptural One-Off Ceramic Vase by Pino Castagna, 1990s

By Pino Castagna

Located in Koper, SI

Postmodern ceramic vase by Pino Castagna, in the tones of white and brown, with a tactile finishing with purposeflly created cooking bubbles. This piece was manufactured in the artis...

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase "Bolo Bowl"
Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase "Bolo Bowl"

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase "Bolo Bowl"

Unavailable

H 9.06 in W 9.65 in D 9.65 in

Ettore Sottsass Green and White Ceramic Vase "Bolo Bowl"

By Ettore Sottsass

Located in Lisbon, IT

Ettore Sottsass green and white ceramic vase "Bolo bowl".

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Post-Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

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Italian Post Modern Ceramic For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the Italian post modern ceramic you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Each Italian post modern ceramic for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using ceramic, metal and glass. Find 377 options for an antique or vintage Italian post modern ceramic now, or shop our selection of 214 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without an Italian post modern ceramic — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. An Italian post modern ceramic made by mid-century modern designers — as well as those associated with modern — is very popular. A well-made Italian post modern ceramic has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Ettore Sottsass, Giovanni Mengoni and Bitossi are consistently popular.

How Much is an Italian Post Modern Ceramic?

Prices for an Italian post modern ceramic can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $75 and can go as high as $244,450, while the average can fetch as much as $1,397.

A Close Look at Post-modern Furniture

Postmodern design was a short-lived movement that manifested itself chiefly in Italy and the United States in the early 1980s. The characteristics of vintage postmodern furniture and other postmodern objects and decor for the home included loud-patterned, usually plastic surfaces; strange proportions, vibrant colors and weird angles; and a vague-at-best relationship between form and function.

ORIGINS OF POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

  • Emerges during the 1960s; popularity explodes during the ’80s
  • A reaction to prevailing conventions of modernism by mainly American architects
  • Architect Robert Venturi critiques modern architecture in his Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture (1966)
  • Theorist Charles Jencks, who championed architecture filled with allusions and cultural references, writes The Language of Post-Modern Architecture (1977)
  • Italian design collective the Memphis Group, also known as Memphis Milano, meets for the first time (1980) 
  • Memphis collective debuts more than 50 objects and furnishings at Salone del Milano (1981)
  • Interest in style declines, minimalism gains steam

CHARACTERISTICS OF POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

  • Dizzying graphic patterns and an emphasis on loud, off-the-wall colors
  • Use of plastic and laminates, glass, metal and marble; lacquered and painted wood 
  • Unconventional proportions and abundant ornamentation
  • Playful nods to Art Deco and Pop art

POSTMODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

VINTAGE POSTMODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

Critics derided postmodern design as a grandstanding bid for attention and nothing of consequence. Decades later, the fact that postmodernism still has the power to provoke thoughts, along with other reactions, proves they were not entirely correct.

Postmodern design began as an architectural critique. Starting in the 1960s, a small cadre of mainly American architects began to argue that modernism, once high-minded and even noble in its goals, had become stale, stagnant and blandly corporate. Later, in Milan, a cohort of creators led by Ettore Sottsass and Alessandro Mendinia onetime mentor to Sottsass and a key figure in the Italian Radical movement — brought the discussion to bear on design.

Sottsass, an industrial designer, philosopher and provocateur, gathered a core group of young designers into a collective in 1980 they called Memphis. Members of the Memphis Group,  which would come to include Martine Bedin, Michael Graves, Marco Zanini, Shiro Kuramata, Michele de Lucchi and Matteo Thun, saw design as a means of communication, and they wanted it to shout. That it did: The first Memphis collection appeared in 1981 in Milan and broke all the modernist taboos, embracing irony, kitsch, wild ornamentation and bad taste.

Memphis works remain icons of postmodernism: the Sottsass Casablanca bookcase, with its leopard-print plastic veneer; de Lucchi’s First chair, which has been described as having the look of an electronics component; Martine Bedin’s Super lamp: a pull-toy puppy on a power-cord leash. Even though it preceded the Memphis Group’s formal launch, Sottsass’s iconic Ultrafragola mirror — in its conspicuously curved plastic shell with radical pops of pink neon — proves striking in any space and embodies many of the collective’s postmodern ideals. 

After the initial Memphis show caused an uproar, the postmodern movement within furniture and interior design quickly took off in America. (Memphis fell out of fashion when the Reagan era gave way to cool 1990’s minimalism.) The architect Robert Venturi had by then already begun a series of plywood chairs for Knoll Inc., with beefy, exaggerated silhouettes of traditional styles such as Queen Anne and Chippendale. In 1982, the new firm Swid Powell enlisted a group of top American architects, including Frank Gehry, Richard Meier, Stanley Tigerman and Venturi to create postmodern tableware in silver, ceramic and glass.

On 1stDibs, the vintage postmodern furniture collection includes chairs, coffee tables, sofas, decorative objects, table lamps and more.