Geometric Illusion: Fornasetti "Egocentrismo" Op Art Plates (Set of Six)

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Geometric Illusion: Fornasetti "Egocentrismo" Op Art Plates (Set of Six)

A captivating and unusually abstract collection, this set of six … Read more Geometric Illusion: Fornasetti "Egocentrismo" Op Art Plates (Set of Six)

A captivating and unusually abstract collection, this set of six circular porcelain plates in the "Egocentrismo" pattern, produced in the 1990s, showcases a rare side of Piero Fornasetti’s (1913–1988) multifaceted design genius. The set is named "Egocentrismo" (Egocentralism) and features bold, black-and-white geometric designs, numbered 1, 2, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

Design and Optical Art
In a massive body of work dedicated primarily to figuration, humor, and surrealist fantasy—like the famous face of Lina Cavalieri—the Egocentrismo series stands as a striking anomaly. The pattern is entirely abstract, characterized by intense, mesmerizing Op Art (Optical Art) motifs. These designs create visual tension and three-dimensional illusions, such as deep vortexes and repeating chequerboard patterns, forcing the viewer’s eye toward a central point—hence the name "Egocentrismo."

This motif reminds us of Fornasetti's experimental spirit and his clear influence from both historical decorative traditions and mid-20th-century movements. For instance, Egocentrismo #4 is noted as a variation of a geometric pattern frequently used by his great collaborator, the architect Gio Ponti.

Historical Context and Production
The Egocentrismo pattern was designed by Fornasetti in the 1950s–1960s—a time when Op Art was in its prime—as confirmed by an example of an earlier plate from the series held in the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.

These particular plates were executed after Piero Fornasetti's death, during the 1990s, by the Fornasetti Atelier to continue his legacy. They were manufactured using blanks from the German porcelain company Eschenbach/Bavaria, a practice similar to earlier collaborations with Hutschenreuter and Rosenthal. This continued production testifies to the timelessness and enduring demand for Fornasetti’s varied aesthetic vocabulary.

Dimensions: 10 1/4 inches Diameter × 1 inch high (26cm diameter).

Marking: Each plate is marked on the reverse with the Fornasetti hand holding a brush logo, the pattern name 'EGOCENTRISMO', the series number (1, 2, 2, 3, 4, or 5), and the manufacturer’s inscription: 'FORNASETTI - MILANO, MADE IN ITALY'. The set also features the underglaze green backstamp: Eschenbach/Bavaria Germany below a crown and stars.

This rare collection offers a compelling glimpse into the depths of Fornasetti’s creativity, demonstrating his mastery not only of figurative narrative but also of hypnotic, dynamic abstract design. See less