Mid-Century Italian Console attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, 1940s

Details

Description

Elegant Italian console dating from the 1940s, attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, distinguished by its strongly architectural construction, rich woodwork, and … Read more Elegant Italian console dating from the 1940s, attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, distinguished by its strongly architectural construction, rich woodwork, and refined combination of dark wood, smoked glass and brass details.

The upper section features a broad dark glass top, with a smooth, polished surface set within the wooden structure. The deep tone of the glass creates a pronounced contrast with the wood while visually lightening the substantial upper section of the console.

Beneath the top is a long horizontal case fitted with four drawers, arranged in a continuous sequence. The fronts are veneered in richly figured dark wood, with the grain arranged in a geometric chevron pattern. Four softly curved brass handles complete the fronts, adding a restrained decorative element while preserving the continuity of the veneer.

The most distinctive aspect of the console is its lower structure. The top is supported by six curved wooden elements, arranged symmetrically in two groups of three. Each group follows a gently arched line, with the individual supports opening outward as they descend towards the base. Their overlapping arrangement creates an almost sculptural effect, further emphasized by the different depths and glossy surfaces of the wood.

At the centre, between the supports, is a broad vertical wooden panel that acts as a backdrop to the structure and adds depth to the composition. The console is therefore articulated through a succession of layered elements: the dark glass top, the drawer case, the curved supports and the rear wooden panel.

A particularly refined detail is the brass profile running along the edge of the base. The thin metal strip follows the perimeter of the plinth, highlighting its architectural outline and creating a subtle transition between the dark wood and the floor. The same material is repeated in the drawer handles, establishing a deliberate visual relationship between the functional elements above and the supporting structure below.

The console reflects the language of high-end Italian furniture of the 1950s, where formal research was expressed through construction rather than excessive surface decoration. Here, the six curved supports, the layered volumes, the geometric veneer and the contrast between dark wood and glass define the identity of the piece.

Recap

Designer: Attributed to Osvaldo Borsani
Period: 1940s
Origin: Italy
Style: Italian Mid-Century
Type: Console
Materials: Teak, black glass and brass
Drawers: Four, with geometric chevron-patterned veneer
Handles: Four sculpted brass handles
Structure: Six curved wooden supports, arranged symmetrically in two groups of three
Base: Wide wooden plinth with a perimeter brass profile 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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