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Carlo De Carli Sculptural Writing Desk in Walnut, Italy, 1950s

About the Item

A rare and highly sculptural desk by Carlo De Carli, where structure and form resolve into a single, continuous gesture. The top extends into sharp, blade-like points, while the apron flows seamlessly into four tapered, splayed legs through soft, controlled radii. The result is a fluid, architectural volume — elegant, dynamic, and unmistakably Italian. A deep central drawer is perfectly integrated within the fascia and revealed only by a discreet recessed groove underneath — a refined, handle-free solution that preserves the purity of the design. Good vintage condition, with visible signs of use intentionally preserved. The piece retains its original patina, with light wear consistent with age. A conservative restoration is available upon request, although we recommend maintaining its current condition. An exceptional example of De Carli’s organic modernism — rare to find in this condition and quality. Literature Roberto Aloi, *Esempi di Arredamento Moderno di Tutto il Mondo: Sale da Pranzo*, Milan, 1953, pls. 203–204 Irene de Guttry & Maria Paola Maino, *Il Mobile Italiano degli Anni ’40 e ’50*, Bari, 1992, p. 157

Creator:
Carlo di Carli (Designer)
Dimensions:
Height: 30.71 in (78 cm)Width: 63 in (160 cm)Depth: 29.53 in (75 cm)
Style:
Mid-Century Modern (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Walnut,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Italy
Period:
1950-1959
Date of Manufacture:
1950s
Condition:
Refinished. Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Brescia, IT
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU8256249395682

Shop All Carlo di Carli

Carlo di Carli

A modern Renaissance man, Italian designer Carlo di Carli wove his personal philosophy into his furniture creations. He believed that furniture should suit human movement and the surrounding environment, and each piece was made not only with an eye to form but also for everyday practicality. In today’s interiors, vintage di Carli furniture captures the extraordinary essence of Italian mid-century modernism.

Carlo di Carli was born in Milan in 1910. He studied at the Polytechnic University of Milan and developed an interest in design, architecture, writing and philosophy. After graduating in 1934, he worked under revered Italian architect and designer Gio Ponti. Shortly afterward, di Carli opened a studio with furniture maker Renato Angeli. In 1940, he began a relationship with the Milan Triennial design and art museum, where he eventually joined the board of directors.

Most of di Carli's furniture and architectural works came to fruition between the 1940s and 1970s. His architectural projects included the Church of Saint Ildefonso and the Via dei Giardini 7 building in Milan. However, di Carli is best known for his chair and table designs.

What sets di Carli’s chairs and other seating apart from those of other designers is that they are made to be lived in. As a result, his comfortable, functional and inviting designs earned the attention of leading Italian furniture companies like Cassina, Singer & Sons, Tecno and GUBI, and he played a significant role in 20th-century Italian furniture design.

In 1954, di Carli was awarded the Compasso d’Oro for his Cassina Model 683 chair. In 1957, he also won a Grand Prix at the Milan Triennial exhibition for a chair he designed for Tecno. Still committed to his academic pursuits, di Carli served as dean of the architecture faculty at the Polytechnic University of Milan from 1963 to 1968. He continued teaching until 1986 and continued writing until his death in 1999. His most important writings were published in a book titled Architettura, Spazio Primario.

Find vintage Carlo di Carli armchairs, dining chairs and coffee tables on 1stDibs.