Born in Milan, Carlo Bugatti was an Italian Art Nouveau furniture designer. His body of work is characterised by use of unconventional materials and high ornamentation. Over his life he crafted unique furniture, jewellery, musical instruments and interior design. Our collection of Bugatti furniture is the largest in the UK, with some stunning examples.
Bugatti began his education at the Brera Academy in Milan, before later enrolling at the Académie des Beaux Arts in Paris. Around 1880, Bugatti returned to Milan and established his own studio. His early work from this period displays rectilinear forms that contrast with the more fluid shapes of his later pieces. This furniture, unparalleled in its era, maintains its uniqueness to this day.
Many have noted Bugatti's designs for their oriental and Moorish inspiration. His creations also use a diverse array of materials, including fringes, tassels, brass and pewter inlays, silk cords, ivorine, white wood, and bone. Many of Carlo Bugatti's chairs also feature vellum as a prime material. This was used both as a covering for the wooden construction of his furniture but also as a structural element. Often, the vellum was delicately illustrated organic motifs such as plants or spiderwebs. These infused the pieces with an exotic essence while softening the geometric forms.
Bugatti's furniture displays a distinctive character, yet never appeares disjointed or disproportionate. Instead, his furniture exudes a grounded elegance, enriched by exotic ornamentation and imaginative flourishes. Please get in touch to enquire about our Carlo Bugatti furniture for sale, or visit the gallery in Shrewsbury to see these stunning pieces for yourself.
