Skip to main content

Fornasetti Furniture

The Italian artist, illustrator and furniture maker Piero Fornasetti was one of the wittiest and most imaginative design talents of the 20th century. He crafted an inimitable decorative style from a personal vocabulary of images that included birds, butterflies, hot-air balloons, architecture and — most frequently, and in some 500 variations — an enigmatic woman’s face based on that of the 19th-century opera singer Lina Cavalieri. Fornasetti used transfer prints of these images, rendered in the style of engravings, to decorate an endless variety of furnishings and housewares that ranged from chairs, tables and desks to dinner plates, lamps and umbrella stands. His work is archly clever, often surreal and always fun.

Fornasetti was born in Milan, the son of an accountant, and he lived his entire life in the city. He showed artistic talent as a child and enrolled at Milan’s Brera Academy of Fine Art in 1930, but was expelled after two years for consistently failing to follow his professors’ orders. A group of his hand-painted silk scarves, displayed in the 1933 Triennale di Milano, caught the eye of the architect and designer Gio Ponti, who, in the 1940s, became Fornasetti’s collaborator and patron. Beginning in the early 1950s, they created a striking a series of desks, bureaus and secretaries that pair Ponti’s signature angular forms with Fornasetti’s decorative motifs — lighthearted arrangements of flowers and birds on some pieces, austere architectural imagery on others. The two worked together on numerous commissions for interiors, though their greatest project has been lost: the first-class lounges and restaurants of the luxury ocean liner Andrea Doria, which sank in 1956.

Fornasetti furnishings occupy an unusual and compelling niche in the decorative arts: they are odd yet pack a serious punch. They act, essentially, as functional sculpture. A large Fornasetti piece such as a cabinet or a desk can change the character of an entire room; his smaller works have the aesthetic power of a vase of flowers, providing a bright and alluring decorative note. The chimerical, fish-nor-fowl nature of Fornasetti’s work may be its greatest strength. It stands on its own. Bringing the Fornasetti look into the future is Barnaba Fornasetti, who took the reins of the company after his father's death.

to
10
162
71
180
38
17
125
58
4
1
1
179
55
111
46
33
22
6
9
10
119
88
62
38
14
231
225
4
1
235
214
218
107
13,090
3,876
2,526
2,233
Creator: Fornasetti
1970s Table by Piero Fornasetti Depicting "Sun King" 'Louis XIV', Made in Italy
1970s Table by Piero Fornasetti Depicting "Sun King" 'Louis XIV', Made in Italy

1970s Table by Piero Fornasetti Depicting "Sun King" 'Louis XIV', Made in Italy

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Milano, IT

1970s Table by Piero Fornasetti Depicting "Sun King" 'Louis XIV', Made in Italy This striking side table by the iconic Italian designer Piero Fornasetti dates to the 1970s and featur...

Category

1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

FORNASETTI Playing Cards Box
FORNASETTI Playing Cards Box

FORNASETTI Playing Cards Box

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage poker playing cards box in walnut wood and metal case, it holds two packs of cards / designed by Piero Fornasetti, made in Italy in the 1970s Length: 5.5 inches / Width: 4 in...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Lampada da Tavolo Squadrata Serie "Architettura" di Fornasetti Anni 90
Lampada da Tavolo Squadrata Serie "Architettura" di Fornasetti Anni 90

Lampada da Tavolo Squadrata Serie "Architettura" di Fornasetti Anni 90

By Fornasetti

Located in Milano, MI

Lampada da tavolo squadrata, collezione 'Architettura', realizzata da Fornaaetti negli anni '90 Ø cm 10 h cm 45 La base per lampada è realizzata in metallo serigrafato a mano, cara...

Category

1990s Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal, Brass

Astronomici n.1 Decorative Plate by Fornasetti
Astronomici n.1 Decorative Plate by Fornasetti

Astronomici n.1 Decorative Plate by Fornasetti

By Fornasetti

Located in Milan, IT

This hand-decorated porcelain plate is adorned with exquisite zodiac designs, making this a true collector's item. Any minor discrepancies are the result of craftsmanship and attest ...

Category

2010s Italian Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Tema e Variazioni n.393 Round Ashtray
Tema e Variazioni n.393 Round Ashtray

Tema e Variazioni n.393 Round Ashtray

By Fornasetti

Located in Milan, IT

The face of opera singer Lina Cavalieri, reinterpreted by Piero Fornasetti, embellishes this hand-decorated porcelain ashtray, part of the iconic Tema e Variazioni series: an everyda...

Category

2010s Italian Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Rare Trumeau mod. Gran Coromandel
20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Rare Trumeau mod. Gran Coromandel

20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Rare Trumeau mod. Gran Coromandel

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Turin, Turin

Piero Fornasetti was an Italian painter, sculptor, decorator, and craftsman who used ornamental and pictorial motifs to decorate silk scarves, furniture, plates, vessels, and similar...

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Glass, Wood, Harewood

Set of 6 Astronomici Tea Cups
Set of 6 Astronomici Tea Cups

Set of 6 Astronomici Tea Cups

By Fornasetti

Located in Milan, IT

This set of hand-decorated porcelain tea cups with gold accents is adorned with exquisite zodiac designs, making this ensemble a true collector's item. Any minor discrepancies betwee...

Category

2010s Italian Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Vintage Piero Fornasetti Strumenti Musical or Libri Screen
Vintage Piero Fornasetti Strumenti Musical or Libri Screen

Vintage Piero Fornasetti Strumenti Musical or Libri Screen

By Fornasetti

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

An iconic mid-size screen depicting a library shelf on one side and musical instruments on the verso. A period example, circa 1954. Measures: 53 1/2" high.

Category

1950s Italian Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

FORNASETTI Bar Cart
FORNASETTI Bar Cart

FORNASETTI Bar Cart

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original bar cart made in brass and wood with two removable trays / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti, 1950s Original label underside, stamped D.B.G.M. SW on the cart wheel M...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Brass

FORNASETTI Butterfly Square Side Table
FORNASETTI Butterfly Square Side Table

FORNASETTI Butterfly Square Side Table

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original square table with transfer-printed wooden top in the design of butterflies, it can be used as a side table or center table / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti, 1970s...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate Motiv 24
FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate Motiv 24

FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate Motiv 24

By Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Rosenthal Fornasetti "Temi e Variazioni" porcelain plate motiv 24, with gold rim and black and white printed center depicting the face of the famous opera singer Lina Cavalie...

Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Butterfly Box
FORNASETTI Butterfly Box

FORNASETTI Butterfly Box

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage decorative rectangular lacquered walnut wood box with butterfly motif / designed by Piero Fornasetti, made in Italy in the 1970s Original mark at the felt base Length: 9.5 in...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Fornasetti Theme & Variations Porcelain Plate No. 218 with Original Box
Fornasetti Theme & Variations Porcelain Plate No. 218 with Original Box

Fornasetti Theme & Variations Porcelain Plate No. 218 with Original Box

By Fornasetti

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A fine designer porcelain plate. By Fornasetti. From the Theme & Variations series (Tema e Variazioni) Model no. 218. With a depiction of Lina Cavalliere's face behind fruit (inc...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Fornasetti Architettura Pattern Umbrella Stand Waste or Laundry Bin
Fornasetti Architettura Pattern Umbrella Stand Waste or Laundry Bin

Fornasetti Architettura Pattern Umbrella Stand Waste or Laundry Bin

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A stunning metal Umbrella Stand with the iconic Architettura Pattern. The size and presence is large enough, not only to work well with Umbrellas, but can also work as a waste or la...

Category

20th Century Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal, Brass

FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #81
FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #81

FORNASETTI Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #81

By Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Piero Fornasetti "Tema e Variazioni" porcelain plate depicting the smoking face of the famous opera singer Lina Cavalieri, no.81 / made in Milano Italy circa 1960 Original ma...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Rare Ceramic Snail Table Lamp
FORNASETTI Rare Ceramic Snail Table Lamp

FORNASETTI Rare Ceramic Snail Table Lamp

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original white ceramic giant snail lamp / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti, 1970s Original label underside Measures: length 13.8 inches, width 9.8 inches, height 19.3 inches...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Piero Fornasetti Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #78
Piero Fornasetti Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #78

Piero Fornasetti Tema E Variazioni Porcelain Plate #78

By Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Piero Fornasetti "Tema e Variazioni" porcelain plate depicting the face of the famous opera singer Lina Cavalieri, no.78 / made in Milano Italy circa 1960. Original mark on t...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Piero Fornasetti Porcelain Mesi and Soli Pair of Plates 12 Suns 12 Months, 1955
Piero Fornasetti Porcelain Mesi and Soli Pair of Plates 12 Suns 12 Months, 1955

Piero Fornasetti Porcelain Mesi and Soli Pair of Plates 12 Suns 12 Months, 1955

By Fornasetti

Located in Downingtown, PA

Piero Fornasetti porcelain plates, 12 suns, 12 months, Pair of plates Mid to late 1950s. The rare Piero Fornasetti "12 Mesi 12 Soli" series plates show the sun as a woman's face and each one represents a different month- May and June. They are numbered five and six. Dimensions: 10 1/4 inches diameter x 1 inch high. Mark: Each with Piero Fornasetti printed...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Rare Piero Fornasetti Mid-Century Ceramic Paperweight 'Occhio', Italy 1950s.
Rare Piero Fornasetti Mid-Century Ceramic Paperweight 'Occhio', Italy 1950s.

Rare Piero Fornasetti Mid-Century Ceramic Paperweight 'Occhio', Italy 1950s.

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti, Gio Ponti

Located in Malmö, SE

A rare and beautiful paperweight with amazing surrealist eyeball decor. Designed and produced by Piero Fornasetti in Milano, Italy. Early production, 1950s. Great original conditio...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Umbrella Stand
FORNASETTI Umbrella Stand

FORNASETTI Umbrella Stand

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Italian metal umbrella stand, featuring a design of casa con colonne on the outer cover. The interior is green, and the top is accented with a brass rim, with original alumin...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Fornasetti Silk Cushion Mano Hand
Fornasetti Silk Cushion Mano Hand

Fornasetti Silk Cushion Mano Hand

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

The Fornasetti cushions will add to each room an unexpected detail thanks to the most iconic Italian atelier designs. The decoration plays with the anatomic theme in a surreal an...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Silk

Fornasetti Milano 'Fiori' Pattern Porcelain Plates, Set of Twelve, circa 1965
Fornasetti Milano 'Fiori' Pattern Porcelain Plates, Set of Twelve, circa 1965

Fornasetti Milano 'Fiori' Pattern Porcelain Plates, Set of Twelve, circa 1965

By Fornasetti

Located in Kinderhook, NY

An incredibly rare set of 12 large porcelain dinner plates in the 'Fiori' pattern designed by Piero Fornasetti and produced by Fornasetti - Milano, circa 1965. There are two plates o...

Category

1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Eva Black/White
Set 12 Porcelain Plates Eva Black/White

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Eva Black/White

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

This set of twelve hand-decorated porcelain plates, as a whole, forms the figure of Eva. You can use the ensemble for ornamental purposes or...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Fornasetti Porcelain Musical Tableware, 5 Pcs.
Fornasetti Porcelain Musical Tableware, 5 Pcs.

Fornasetti Porcelain Musical Tableware, 5 Pcs.

By Fornasetti

Located in Astoria, NY

Collection of Five Fornasetti Porcelain Musical Instrument Tableware Pieces, comprising: (2) two "Instrumenti Musicali", plate and small dish, marked "Fornasetti Milano / Made in Ita...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Architecture Table Lamp by Fornasetti
FORNASETTI Architecture Table Lamp by Fornasetti

FORNASETTI Architecture Table Lamp by Fornasetti

By Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage "Architecture" hand-silk-screened table lamp in brass and metal / designed by Piero Fornasetti, made in Italy in the 1980s Original label at underside Height: 16.5 inches / D...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

FORNASETTI Playing Cards Side Table
FORNASETTI Playing Cards Side Table

FORNASETTI Playing Cards Side Table

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original round table with transfer-printed wooden top depicting a set of imperial playing cards, it can be used as a side table or center table / made in Milan Italy by Forna...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Mid Century Catchall Arturo Toscanini in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti
Mid Century Catchall Arturo Toscanini in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti

Mid Century Catchall Arturo Toscanini in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti

By Fornasetti

Located in W Allenhurst, NJ

Porcelain catchall/ashtray by Piero Fornasetti - Milano The 1950s-1960s The large ceramic tray or ashtray depicts the poster of Toscanini' Concert. "This is the poster of the inaugu...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Cigar Humidor
FORNASETTI Cigar Humidor

FORNASETTI Cigar Humidor

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Italian wooden cigar humidor box with cammei design on faux marble / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti, in the 1980s Original metal label inside Measures: width 10 inches, de...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Set of 5 1950s Piero Fornasetti Grandi Maestri Gold Ceramic Plates
Set of 5 1950s Piero Fornasetti Grandi Maestri Gold Ceramic Plates

Set of 5 1950s Piero Fornasetti Grandi Maestri Gold Ceramic Plates

By Fornasetti

Located in London, GB

Set of 5 Fornasetti ceramic /gold plates “Grandi Maestri” series. Ceramic plate by Piero Fornasetti of the series ” Grandi Maestri ” Music Great Masters. Ceramic, silk screen prin...

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

FORNASETTI Vintage Table Lamp
FORNASETTI Vintage Table Lamp

FORNASETTI Vintage Table Lamp

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Italian table lamp with painted metal in malachite design (lithographical and transfer-printed) and brass / made in Milan Italy in the 1980s Original label on the base 1 ligh...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Set of six Fornasetti 'Specialita Romane' recipe plates c1950
Set of six Fornasetti 'Specialita Romane' recipe plates c1950

Set of six Fornasetti 'Specialita Romane' recipe plates c1950

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in London, GB

Wonderful set of six original Fornasetti Roman recipe plates. Italy c1950 Each plate with a typical Roman cuisine recipe along with a depiction of an historical Roman building.

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI Face Side Table
FORNASETTI Face Side Table

FORNASETTI Face Side Table

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original round table with transfer-printed wooden top depicting the face of Lina Cavalieri, it can be used as a side table or center table / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Fornasetti Porcelain Themes & Variation Plate, Number 186
Fornasetti Porcelain Themes & Variation Plate, Number 186

Fornasetti Porcelain Themes & Variation Plate, Number 186

By Fornasetti

Located in Downingtown, PA

"Sicilian Surrealism": Fornasetti "Tema e Variazioni" Trinacria Plate, (Face with Three Legs), 1990's A striking and surreal porcelain wall plate from the iconic "Themes & Variatio...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Piero Fornasetti Tema e Variazioni Porcelain Plate 81
Piero Fornasetti Tema e Variazioni Porcelain Plate 81

Piero Fornasetti Tema e Variazioni Porcelain Plate 81

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Miami, FL

The face of the opera singer Lina Cavalieri, Piero Fornasetti's muse, embellishes this decorative porcelain wall plate. This is variation number 81 of the iconic series, reinterpreti...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White
Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

This set of twelve hand-decorated porcelain plates, as a whole, forms the figure of Adamo. You can use the ensemble for ornamental purposes ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Fornasetti Silk Cushion High Fidelity Cat
Fornasetti Silk Cushion High Fidelity Cat

Fornasetti Silk Cushion High Fidelity Cat

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

The Fornasetti cushions will add to each room an unexpected detail thanks to the most iconic Italian atelier designs. Cushion cover material: S...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Silk

FORNASETTI Butterfly Poker Card Game Set Box
FORNASETTI Butterfly Poker Card Game Set Box

FORNASETTI Butterfly Poker Card Game Set Box

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage butterfly poker card game set box, screen print on wood, with two decks of playing cards, eight dices and chips / Designed by PIero Fornasetti, made in Milan Italy by Fornase...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Fornasetti Tray Holder Black
Fornasetti Tray Holder Black

Fornasetti Tray Holder Black

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

Fornasetti trays become elegant coffee tables by adding this black wood base. Is suits a 25 x 60 cm wood tray. The image shows the tray on its holder (the tray is not included in ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

FORNASETTI Pair of Vintage Table Lamps
FORNASETTI Pair of Vintage Table Lamps

FORNASETTI Pair of Vintage Table Lamps

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage Italian table lamp with painted metal decorated with violet flowers (lithographical and transfer-printed) and brass / made in Milan Italy in the 1980s Original label on the b...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Cylindrical Metal Lamp Base Viso Black/White, Iconical Fornasetti Face Decor
Cylindrical Metal Lamp Base Viso Black/White, Iconical Fornasetti Face Decor

Cylindrical Metal Lamp Base Viso Black/White, Iconical Fornasetti Face Decor

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

The cylindrical shape allows Fornasetti's imagination to create surprising decorative effects in which the shapes follow one another endlessly. The metafisical face design makes this hand-silkscreened metal lamp base...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Full Set of 6 Vintage Piero Fornasetti Ceramic Gilded Small Bowls, Italy 1950s.
Full Set of 6 Vintage Piero Fornasetti Ceramic Gilded Small Bowls, Italy 1950s.

Full Set of 6 Vintage Piero Fornasetti Ceramic Gilded Small Bowls, Italy 1950s.

By Gio Ponti, Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Malmö, SE

A complete set of 6 beautiful bowls / barware appetizer bowls with amazing decor and hand-painted gold details. Designed and produced by Piero Fornasetti in Milano, Italy. Early prod...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

1990s Wall Clock in  Glass by Fornasetti. Made in Italy
1990s Wall Clock in  Glass by Fornasetti. Made in Italy

1990s Wall Clock in Glass by Fornasetti. Made in Italy

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Milano, IT

1990s Gorgeous wall clock in glass by Fornasetti it's signed on the bottom. Made in Italy. It's in excellent condition and it works perfectly with an AA battery (quartz mechanism by ...

Category

1990s Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Glass

Fornasetti Themes & Variations Plate, Pattern Number 52, Atelier Fornasetti, 19
Fornasetti Themes & Variations Plate, Pattern Number 52, Atelier Fornasetti, 19

Fornasetti Themes & Variations Plate, Pattern Number 52, Atelier Fornasetti, 19

By Fornasetti

Located in Downingtown, PA

Surreal Distortion: Fornasetti "Themes & Variations" Plate #52 (Lina Cavalieri) Circa 1990s A striking and surreal porcelain wall plate from the iconic "Themes & Variations" (Tema e...

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

1960s Mid-Century Modern Cigarette Box Le Porte Di Milano by Piero Fornasetti
1960s Mid-Century Modern Cigarette Box Le Porte Di Milano by Piero Fornasetti

1960s Mid-Century Modern Cigarette Box Le Porte Di Milano by Piero Fornasetti

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Aci Castello, IT

A beautiful and rare mid-century modern cigarette box designed by the renowned Italian artist, Piero Fornasetti (1913-1988), in the 1960s. This piece is part of the iconic "Le Porte ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal, Brass

Fornasetti Dome Plate, Cupola Galleria Di Milano Number 7 in Series
Fornasetti Dome Plate, Cupola Galleria Di Milano Number 7 in Series

Fornasetti Dome Plate, Cupola Galleria Di Milano Number 7 in Series

By Fornasetti

Located in Downingtown, PA

Fornasetti Dome Plate, Cupola Galleria di Milano Number 7 in Series, Dated 2018 Each plate in the series has a different dome of a named and numbered building on the reverse, seen from the inside and below. Dimensions: 9 1/4 inches x 1 inch high. (23.50cm diameter x 2.54cm) The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy's oldest active shopping gallery and a major landmark of Milan in Italy. Housed within a four-story double arcade in the centre of town, the Galleria is named after Victor Emmanuel II, the first king of the Kingdom of Italy. . These plates were originally designed and executed for building contractor Andrea Brenta, Milan, as Christmas presents...

Category

2010s Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

FORNASETTI "Fiori della notte" Round Table
FORNASETTI "Fiori della notte" Round Table

FORNASETTI "Fiori della notte" Round Table

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Large vintage original round "fiori della notte" table with transfer-printed wooden top and fluted black base, can be used as a dining table or center table / made in Milan Italy by ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

Pair of Piero Fornasetti Vintage Gilded Ceramic Jars 'Serie Spighe', Italy 1960s
Pair of Piero Fornasetti Vintage Gilded Ceramic Jars 'Serie Spighe', Italy 1960s

Pair of Piero Fornasetti Vintage Gilded Ceramic Jars 'Serie Spighe', Italy 1960s

By Piero Fornasetti, Gio Ponti, Fornasetti

Located in Malmö, SE

A pair of beautiful lidded porcelain jars with an amazing hand-painted gold pattern. From the series 'Spighe' (Spikes). Designed and produced by Piero Fornasetti in Milano, Italy. Ea...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

1960s Classical Set of Two Bookends " Porta di Venezia " by Piero Fornasetti
1960s Classical Set of Two Bookends " Porta di Venezia " by Piero Fornasetti

1960s Classical Set of Two Bookends " Porta di Venezia " by Piero Fornasetti

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Aci Castello, IT

This rare and visually captivating set of two bookends by Piero Fornasetti, dating from the 1960s, showcases the designer’s signature fusion of classical imagery and surrealist charm...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Neoclassical Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Iron

FORNASETTI Hot Air Balloon Poker Card Game Set Box
FORNASETTI Hot Air Balloon Poker Card Game Set Box

FORNASETTI Hot Air Balloon Poker Card Game Set Box

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage hot air balloon poker card game set box, screen print on wood, with two decks of playing cards, eight dices and chips / Designed by PIe...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood

1950s Fornasetti Paperweight in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti
1950s Fornasetti Paperweight in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti

1950s Fornasetti Paperweight in Porcelain by Piero Fornasetti

By Fornasetti, Piero Fornasetti

Located in Milano, IT

1950s Astonishing rare porcelain paperweight designed by Piero Fornasetti with butterflies. Handmade.Made in Italy. Heavy ceramic construction for use as beautiful desk accessories. ...

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White/Gold
Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White/Gold

Set 12 Porcelain Plates Adamo Black/White/Gold

By Fornasetti

Located in MILANO, IT

This set of twelve hand-decorated porcelain plates, as a whole, forms the figure of Adamo. You can use the ensemble for ornamental purposes ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

1993 Fornasetti Portfolio 6 Surrealist Black/Gold Prints France
1993 Fornasetti Portfolio 6 Surrealist Black/Gold Prints France

1993 Fornasetti Portfolio 6 Surrealist Black/Gold Prints France

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Miami, FL

The complete portfolio from the series Sole e Lune containing 6 Fine Art Silkscreen by Piero Fornasetti published in France by Graphique de France in 1993. This portfolio was exclusively created for Pier One...

Category

1990s French Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Paper

FORNASETTI Greek Key Round Mirror
FORNASETTI Greek Key Round Mirror

FORNASETTI Greek Key Round Mirror

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage original round wall mirror, featuring greek keys motif in a gold tone over a green and black granite like pattern / made in Milan Italy by Fornasetti, 1970s Original label un...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Wood, Mirror

20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Umbrella Stand mod. Micione
20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Umbrella Stand mod. Micione

20th Century, Piero Fornasetti Umbrella Stand mod. Micione

By Fornasetti

Located in Turin, Turin

Piero Fornasetti was an Italian painter, sculptor, decorator, and craftsman who used ornamental and pictorial motifs to decorate silk scarves, furniture, plates, vessels, and similar...

Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Rare & Stunning Decorative Set Of Six Fornasetti Plates
Rare & Stunning Decorative Set Of Six Fornasetti Plates

Rare & Stunning Decorative Set Of Six Fornasetti Plates

By Fornasetti

Located in Portlaoise, IE

This extraordinary and highly collectible set of six porcelain plates is from the iconic Giornali (Newspapers) series by the legendary Italian design house, Fornasetti. Designed by P...

Category

1990s Italian Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Porcelain

Original Fornasetti Curved Chest Of Drawers
Original Fornasetti Curved Chest Of Drawers

Original Fornasetti Curved Chest Of Drawers

By Fornasetti

Located in Kent, Dover

An original Fornasetti Chest "Archittetura" Produced by Atelier Fornasetti in lithographically printed hand painted and lacquered rosewood, with brass fittings, these pieces of furn...

Category

Early 2000s Italian Mid-Century Modern Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Beech

Fornasetti tray, fantastical hot air balloons c1950
Fornasetti tray, fantastical hot air balloons c1950

Fornasetti tray, fantastical hot air balloons c1950

By Piero Fornasetti, Fornasetti

Located in London, GB

Wonderful Piero Fornasetti original 1950s tray with fantastical hot air balloon motifs on red background. Hand painted, lithograph

Category

1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage Fornasetti Furniture

Materials

Metal

Fornasetti furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Fornasetti furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of ceramic and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Fornasetti furniture, although gray editions of this piece are particularly popular. We have 143 vintage editions of these items in-stock, while there is 53 modern edition to choose from as well. Many of the original furniture by Fornasetti were created in the mid-century modern style in europe during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Richard Ginori, Alfredo Barbini, and La Murrina. Prices for Fornasetti furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $274 and can go as high as $32,216, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,614.
Questions About Fornasetti Furniture
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Fornasetti plates are hand-made in Italy. They continue a tradition of excellent craftsmanship that goes back to founder Piero Fornasetti, who established the atelier during the 1950s. Shop antique and modern Fornasetti plates from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Fornasetti is an art design company that produces furniture and home accessories decorated by hand. Piero Fornasetti established the company in Milan, Italy, during the 1950s as his atelier. As of December 2021, his son, Barnaba Fornasetti, heads the company. You'll find a selection of Fornasetti on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You can buy Fornasetti directly from the brand's online store. In addition, numerous brick-and-mortar retailers around the world carry Fornasetti pieces. You can also shop for the brand's furniture and home décor on multiple online platforms. You'll find a collection of Fornasetti on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
    The style of Fornasetti is mid-century modern. The Italian artist and designer crafted an inimitable decorative style from a personal library of images rendered in transfer print engravings, including birds, butterflies, hot-air balloons, architecture and an enigmatic woman's face, to decorate an endless variety of furnishings and housewares that range from chairs, tables and decorative objects to dinner plates, table lamps and umbrella stands. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Piero Fornasetti art, furniture and decorative objects.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Piero Fornasetti was an Italian artist and designer born in Milan, Italy, in 1913. In 1950, he founded an atelier in the city, creating furniture and home decorations. Fornasetti died on October 9, 1988. His company, Fornasetti, continues to produce hand-decorated decor under the guidance of his son Barnaba Fornasetti. Find a collection of Fornasetti on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To hang Fornasetti plates, thread a length of string through the two small holes found on the tops of their backs. Tie the string in a secure knot and then hang from a nail, screw or hook. Avoid using plate hanger hardware, as it could crack or damage the plates. You'll find a collection of Fornasetti plates on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    Piero Fornasetti is famous for his work as a designer. The Italian artist was one of the wittiest and most imaginative talents of the 20th century. Fornasetti crafted an inimitable decorative style from a personal vocabulary of images that included birds, butterflies, hot-air balloons, architecture and — most frequently, and in some 500 variations — an enigmatic woman's face based on that of opera singer Lina Cavalieri. Fornasetti used transfer prints of these images, rendered in the style of engravings, to decorate an endless variety of furnishings and housewares that ranged from chairs, tables and decorative objects to dinner plates, table lamps and umbrella stands. His work is archly clever, often Surrealist and always fun. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Piero Fornasetti pieces.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
    The style of art by Fornasetti varied. His use of whimsical motifs has often led his artwork to be associated with Surrealism, while his use of repetitive imagery, like in his many prints featuring opera singer Lina Cavalieri, skewed toward Pop art. As a designer, his works reflected mid-century modern sensibilities with a playful twist. Explore a collection of Piero Fornasetti art and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, each and every Fornasetti design is hand made and hand painted. The colors are expertly applied by painters, ensuring no two items are alike. You’ll find a variety of Fornasetti designs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How you display Fornasetti plates is largely a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to rest them flat on a low table or shelf, while others position them upright on plate stands. You can also thread string or twine through the two holes found on the back of every piece and display it as wall art. Find a collection of Fornasetti plates on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To burn a Fornasetti candle, first trim the wick to remove any soot. Then, light the candle and allow it to burn for up to three hours. Use a snuffer to extinguish the candle, as blowing out the flame can disturb the wax. Find a collection of Fornasetti on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Opera singer Natalina ‘Lina’ Cavalieri is the face that inspired Piero Fornasetti throughout his artistic career, from his plates to wallpaper and more. Lina Cavalieri was known as the most beautiful woman in the world during her lifetime from 1874-1944. It was eight years after Cavalieri’s death that Fornasetti came across her image in a magazine and was thereby inspired to replicate it repetitively. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Fornasetti plates from some of the world’s top sellers.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Whether or not Piero Fornasetti images are in the public domain depends on the image. The artist produced more than 11,000 works during his lifetime. Only some no longer carry a copyright and are in the public domain. Shop a range of Fornasetti on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    No, every Fornasetti porcelain figurine is handmade. In fact, the brand produces all of their home decorative items by hand at their workshop in Milan, Italy. If you see indications that a figurine came from a factory, it is likely not an authentic Fornasetti. Shop a collection of expertly vetted Fornasetti on 1stDibs.

Interiors Featuring Fornasetti

Explore the work of the world's best interior designers