Piero Fornasetti
1913-1988
Piero Fornasetti was an Italian painter, sculptor, and designer celebrated for his whimsical, surreal, and highly decorative creations. Born and based in Milan, he studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera and the Castello Sforzesco school, developing a unique style that blended classical motifs with surrealist and trompe-l’œil effects. He is best known for his Tema e Variazioni series, over 350 variations of the face of opera singer Lina Cavalieri, which exemplify his playful and imaginative approach.
Fornasetti collaborated extensively with architect Gio Ponti on furniture and interior projects, including the San Remo Casino and the iconic Architettura series. His work spans plates, furniture, textiles, and interiors, combining meticulous craftsmanship with inventive design. In 1959, he received the Neiman Marcus Award for distinguished service in fashion. Fornasetti’s influence endures today through his designs, his son Barnaba Fornasetti, and a renewed interest in his work following the 1991 Victoria & Albert Museum retrospective.