Italian Walnut and Patinated Brass Ashtray by Sandro Petti, 1970s

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A sculptural and beautifully crafted Italian vide-poche, ashtray, or small centerpiece attributed to Sandro Petti for Liwan’s Roma, dating from … Read more A sculptural and beautifully crafted Italian vide-poche, ashtray, or small centerpiece attributed to Sandro Petti for Liwan’s Roma, dating from the 1970s and sourced directly from a private residence in Rome’s Parioli district — Villa Roma. The piece instantly conveys a sense of weight, luxury, and quiet sophistication. Turned from solid walnut, the body shows a magnificent interplay of grain and concentric movement, with warm, velvety tones that shift gently with the light. The wood is thick, dense, and flawlessly shaped into a rounded, organic silhouette that feels both modernist and timeless. Set inside is a substantial patinated brass insert, whose mellow golden tone complements the walnut perfectly. The brass shows a beautifully preserved surface, with natural aging consistent with careful use over the decades — a patina that enhances rather than distracts. The contrast between the smooth, glowing metal and the luscious, tactile wood is striking, giving the object a refined presence suitable for any interior. Though unsigned (as many Liwan’s Rome's pieces were), the workmanship, proportions, and materials strongly support its attribution to Sandro Petti and to the Roman atelier Liwan’s. The quality is unmistakable. Ideal as a vide-poche, ashtray, sculptural bowl, or decorative centerpiece. Solid, important, and in excellent vintage condition despite its age. • Italy, 1970s • Solid walnut with patinated brass insert • Diameter 25 cm (9.8 in) • Height / thickness 6 cm (2.36 in) A warm, refined Italian design object that elevates any console, desk, or coffee table. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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