Crystal Ashtray by Pietro Chiesa for Fontana Arte, 1940s

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Description

An extraordinary solid crystal ashtray designed by Pietro Chiesa for Fontana Arte in the 1940s.
The work perfectly expresses the … Read more An extraordinary solid crystal ashtray designed by Pietro Chiesa for Fontana Arte in the 1940s.
The work perfectly expresses the master's poetics, blending architectural rigor and sculptural grace through a noble, luminous material.
Crafted from a single block of hand-cut and polished crystal, the ashtray features a rigorous, square design, in which the concave center, carved with geometric precision, interacts with the flat surfaces and beveled edges.
Chiesa, founder and artistic director of Fontana Arte from 1932 until his death in 1948, was one of the absolute pioneers of artistic glass and crystal work.
He conceived timeless forms, combining precision cutting with the softness of light, anticipating the research into the relationship between transparency and volume that would define postwar Italian design.
The crystal, with its delicate aquamarine hue, still retains its original luminosity and reveals, in the light, a fascinating interplay of depth and reflections.
In good vintage condition, with small natural signs of aging and light surface oxidation due to age, which do not detract from the overall beauty.
An object emblematic of the rational and poetic elegance that made Fontana Arte an icon of Italian modernism.

Product Name: Crystal ashtray designed by Pietro Chiesa for Fontana Arte, 1940
Designer: Pietro Chiesa
Year of Design: 1940s
Style: Italian Modernism; luminous crystal sculpture
Primary Materials: Solid crystal, hand-cut and polished from a single block
Distinctive Design: Rigorous square design with a geometrically carved concave center; flat surfaces and beveled edges that generate intense refractions and an architectural effect of great formal purity
Dimensions: Length 15cm | Width 15cm | Height 3cm
Typical Use: Decorative ashtray or tabletop sculpture; Ideal for consoles, desks, coffee tables, or designer spaces
Design Icon: An emblematic example of the artistic glassmaking style of Pietro Chiesa, a pioneer of artistic glass and founder of Fontana Arte; a testament to his ability to combine constructive rigor and luminous poetry
Versatility: Perfect for modern, Art Deco, minimalist, or contemporary interiors; the aquamarine shade blends harmoniously with cool or neutral palettes
Current Design Condition: Good vintage condition with minor signs of aging and slight oxidation consistent with age, without compromising its aesthetics
Additional Notes: Please note that this item is in excellent vintage condition. Minor signs of aging may be present, but these do not affect its functionality. We encourage you to consider these characteristics before purchasing.
I have official proof of authenticity such as vintage catalogs,
designer records,
or other literature sources and take full responsibility for any authenticity issues arising
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