Ico Parisi is one of the famous architects and interior designers from the Italian Mid-Century period. He was born in Palermo in 1916 as son of an art teacher, however spend most of his life in Como. Although, he already designed furniture during the interbellum; he is more recognized as one of the key personalities of Italian postwar design.

Following the Second World War, some of the best-known Italian designers like Gio Ponti, Paolo Buffa and Ico Parisi were spending time in the area between Milan and Como; a fertile ground for Italian Mid-Century Design. In 1947, Ico Parisi married Luisia Aiana. She was an architect and an apprentice of Gio Ponti. In 1948 they opened their own design studio. Together with his wife, Luisa, he designed furniture that is still very popular amongst collectors and design-lovers. Positioning their designs not as individual design, but more a style - 'Italian Style or Italian Lifestyle'.

Quickly their presence went beyond Italy. Ponti was the first one to present its 'Italy at Work' exhibition in the United States. But Parisi is quickly following in 1951. They designed for Cassina and for De Bagis, MIM Roma and Stildomus. In 1955 Parisi was nominated for the Compasso d’Oro with Model 691 and Model 839 chairs for Сassina.

Design

This corner console or shelf is designed as part of a set with shelves with mirrors for a private client. It was executed by Brugnoli Mobile Cantu in 1954. This piece has two flush drawers; one that features a vertical textured effect, called 'grissinatura'. The top of the shorter side is connected to the front with white Formica, covering a small compartment. It has a rear stopper which tapers off to nothing on the shorter side.

Condition

The console is in very good vintage condition with only minor wear and tear due to its age, but an amazing patina. It is accompanied by a certificate from the 'Archivio del design di Ico Parisi'. Only one is known to be made.

Literature

Ico Parisi Design Catalogo Ragionato 1036-1960 by Roberta Lietti, 2017, Page 326