Carlo di Carli for Fiarm

CARLO DE CARLI (Italy, 1910–1999), for Fiarm
Modular shelving unit, c. 1970.
Lacquered wood.
Shows slight signs of wear.
With original label.
Measurements: 138 x 232 x 30 cm.
Modular shelving unit designed by Italian architect and designer Carlo De Carli for the firm Fiarm, crafted from bentwood during the 1960s. Conceived from an architectural perspective on design, the piece combines functionality, visual lightness, and a careful exploration of the expressive possibilities of bentwood.Its continuous structure, with fluid lines and gently rounded edges, reflects the organic language characteristic of De Carli, who viewed furniture as a natural extension of architectural space. The warmth of the wood is a hallmark of the piece, contrasting with the modernity of its enveloping forms, which foreshadow the Space Age aesthetic, giving the piece an innovative look without sacrificing the balance and elegance characteristic of Italian design.
After working in architecture, in the 1950s, De Carli began to focus on furniture design, creating elegant and modern pieces for the most prestigious Italian manufacturers, such as Cassina and Tecno. He also worked on interior design projects for public and private buildings, including apartments, hotels, and offices. De Carli’s style is characterized by understated elegance, simplicity, and attention to detail. Throughout his career, De Carli received numerous awards and honors for his work, including the prestigious Compasso d’Oro in 1955 and 1960. Today, his furniture and interior architecture projects are considered iconic examples of modern Italian design.