Giovanni Battista Bassi Asymmetrical writing desk Italy 1950

Beautiful a-symmetrical writing desk-table designed by Giovanni Battista Bassi and made in Italy in 1950. This one of a kind piece was created for a project in Florence. It’s made from solid mahogany wood, which has a warm colour and an interesting grain. The table has a distinctive and unusual shape, showing that it was designed by an architects mind. The base of the table is cleverly made and has an interesting architectural look. Despite some minor signs of wear from its age and use, the table is still in good and fully condition.

Giovanni Battista Bassi (1926-2013) was an Italian architect, city planner and designer who left his mark on his home city of Pistoia. His admiration of Frank Lloyd Wright shines through in this desk which celebrates the organic character of wood. It also echoes the craft honesty of the Arts and Crafts movement, De Stijl and Gerrit Rietveld. Describing his approach to teaching students, Bassi declared “I don’t give abstract formulas like theoretical movements, but I tell them work with heart in hand, with affection.” Examples of Bassi’s work is currently held by MoMA, New York and a monograph was published in 2006: Giovanni Battista Bassi: Il Sogno Diventa Forma by Alessandro Suppressa.

The Gerrit Rietveld zigzag chair on the pictures is for reference only, not included in the listing.