Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto 'Artona' Sideboard Red Lacquer and Walnut

Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto, sideboard, walnut, red lacquered wood, ebony, Italy, 1970s

This sideboard with strong geometrical lines is designed as part of the ‘Artona’ line by Afra & Tobia Scarpa. The front panels as well as the top are furnished with vivid red lacquer. A striking play of colors is visible in this design. The frame surrounding the inlays as well as the door panels show the typical dynamic lines that characterize the pieces designed within the ‘Artona’ line. The wood features dark lines that add a certain elegance to the design and testify great craftsmanship.

The ‘Artona’ line by the Scarpa duo was in fact the first line ever produced by Maxalto, the specialist division of B&B Italia. Maxalto was originally set up in 1975 as a high-end division of B&B Italia to focus exclusively on the production of artisanal, mostly wood furniture. The ‘Artona’ was their first project and also functions as a counter-message against the common prevailing use of plastics in furniture design during the Postwar period.

Afra (1937–2011) and Tobia (1935–) Scarpa are a renowned duo of Italian architects and designers, celebrated for their contributions to postmodern design. Afra Bianchin was born in Montebelluna in 1937, while Tobia Scarpa, the son of prominent architect Carlo Scarpa, was born in Venice in 1935. The two met while studying at the Venice Institute of Architecture and later married. Tobia initially worked as a glass designer at the Murano glassworks of Venini from 1957 to 1961. However, in 1960, the pair began collaborating professionally and went on to establish one of the most successful design studios of their time. Their collaborations included work for prestigious companies such as Flos, Gavina, B&B Italia, and Knoll. Throughout their career, the couple received numerous accolades, including the Compasso d’Oro and recognition from the International Forum Design. They also took on high-profile commissions for companies like Benetton. Afra and Tobia Scarpa’s designs are admired for their modernist aesthetic, which blends elegance with comfort. At the same time, their work is known for its subtle nods to classical design and their deep understanding of materials. Today, many of their iconic creations are housed in major museums around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Musée du Louvre, and the National Museum of Design in New York.

Kindly note that this piece is in good, used condition.

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