FontanaArte
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The History
The History
FontanaArte is synonymous with quality, with the know-how of fine “Made in Italy” craftsmanship, with a history of iconic creations with a timeless design. Established in 1881 by Luigi Fontana in Via Bugatti in Milan, the company was originally a glass and crystal workshop.
In the years leading up to 1931, a date that coincides with the appointment of Gio Ponti as artistic director, FontanaArte establishes itself as a leading producer of glass objects, creating some of the most well-known items in its collection such as the 0024 pendant lamp, the Bilia and Pirellina, all of which were designed by Ponti himself. The Milan-based factory has been striving to combine tradition and innovation right from the outset. With the arrival of the great master of design, Pietro Chiesa, the company’s creativity is given a major boost, especially in the production of furnishing accessories such as the Tavolo Curvo Fontana, the Cartoccio vase and the Luminator floor lamp. In the 1950s, under the artistic direction of Max Ingrand, FontanaArte opens up to industrial production after 20 years of limited production, but continues to maintain its strong craftsmanship tradition.
The iconic Fontana table lamp, designed in this period, is still one of the most sought-after pieces in the catalogue, which has been enriched over the years with objects characterised by a delicate, sophisticated look and geometric lines, as well as sculptures that are true works of art capable of imbuing any room with timeless character.
In the 1980s, led by the famous Gae Aulenti, the company experiences a strong urge to modernise its style, offering products such as the Table with Wheels, inspired by the industrial workspace. Reading the history of FontanaArte is like reading some of the most important chapters in the history of national and international design, an evolution of style and taste which, for more than 80 years, has always been in step with the times, making it a leading brand in the sector.
