Scuderia Sideboard in Walnut by Carlo Scarpa for Bernini, Italy, 1970s

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Description

Carlo Scarpa approached furniture with the same architectural thinking found throughout his buildings and interiors. Designed for Bernini during the … Read more Carlo Scarpa approached furniture with the same architectural thinking found throughout his buildings and interiors. Designed for Bernini during the 1970s, the Scuderia series translates this approach into cabinetry, where construction, material and use become visible parts of the design.

This substantial Scuderia sideboard is executed in natural walnut, its broad surfaces giving full presence to the grain of the timber. Four tall doors form an almost continuous façade, interrupted at the centre by a narrow recessed section. Carefully selected veneer creates repeated, vertical patterns across the doors, bringing rhythm to the otherwise restrained composition.

Scarpa softens the rectangular volume through substantial rounded uprights at either end and moulded rails running along the upper edge. Viewed from above, the construction becomes particularly expressive: solid walnut components meet in carefully shaped junctions rather than disappearing behind the cabinet's surfaces. Simple cylindrical wooden handles continue this language of exposed construction.

A central detail is the burnished metal connecting plate engraved with the Bernini emblem. This element is characteristic of the Scuderia series and illustrates Scarpa's tendency to turn a technical requirement into part of the visual composition. Bernini describes these connections as a means of dividing the furniture into sections for easier movement. Rather than concealing this solution, Scarpa gave it its own material presence.

Behind the four doors are generous shelving compartments, supplemented on one side by internal drawers. Their straightforward arrangement contrasts with the considered exterior and provides ample storage for tableware, books or objects.

with its low horizontal proportions, articulated joinery and carefully composed walnut surfaces, the Scuderia sideboard sits between furniture and architecture. Its scale gives it particular presence in a dining room, living space or large interior project.

The sideboard remains in good vintage condition with signs of use consistent with its age. Light scratches, marks and wear are visible across the walnut surfaces and metal fittings, with the original character and patina retained. This piece has an attribution mark,
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