Giovanni “Gio” Ponti, (1891-1976) one of the most important figures in 20th century Italian design, is featured with a retrospective “Tutto Ponti, Gio Ponti archi-designer” at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (to May 5, 2019). The exhibition presents a panoramic chronology of Ponti’s six-decade career in architecture, design, interiors and publishing.
Over 400 pieces trace this multidisciplinary display that combines architecture, furniture and interior fittings for private homes, public buildings and cathedrals. Included are porcelains for Italian ceramics firm Richard Ginori, glass for Venini, and signature Ponti works such as the “La Cornuta” coffee machine and the “Superleggera” chair. The exhibition includes covers of the design magazine “Domus,” which Ponti founded in 1928 and directed nearly his entire life. The magazine continues today.
Six “period rooms” with spectacular reconstructions emphasize the global aspect of Ponti’s work. The garden-side gallery explores his collaborations with major art-object manufacturers such as Richard Ginori, Christofle and Fontana Arte, as well as with artisans and smaller companies.
“Tutto Ponti, Gio Ponti archi-designer,” Musée des Arts Décoratifs, to May 5, 2019