Gio Ponti drawing for Scenography Italy 1946

Gio Ponti

Italy, 1891 – 1971
Architect, designer

This original Gio Ponti sketch, created in 1946 as a design for scenography and theatre costumes, is a rare and captivating piece of design history. Rendered on paper, the drawing showcases Ponti’s artistic brilliance through its abstract composition, with a beautiful green color accented by black lines. It possesses the quality of a standalone work of modern art. Hand-signed in the lower left corner, the piece is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from the Gio Ponti Archives, confirming its provenance. The sketch is displayed in a newly crafted frame, thoughtfully designed to enhance its visual impact while preserving its delicate details.

This sketch exemplifies Ponti’s genius at its best, showcasing his versatility in designing an impressive body of work across a wide range of disciplines. From architecture to furniture, from tableware to theatre design, Ponti’s ability to navigate and excel in diverse creative fields is evident in this piece.

Ponti was a polymath—an architect, designer, and painter—whose prolific career spanned over six decades. His unparalleled creativity and ability to transcend disciplines earned him a reputation as one of the most important designers of the 20th century. This sketch reflects his unique ability to merge functionality with art, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind one of his many iconic projects.

We acquired this and three other drawings directly from the Ponti family, who hold his estate. These four drawings are shown in the last image. The listed measurements are for the work itself, excluding the frame. Owning this piece connects you to Ponti’s legacy and offers a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of the design genius that defined Gio Ponti’s unparalleled career.