L’importaThe silver service by Le Argenterie di Milano di Fiorentini Guido represents a significant example of 20th-century Italian silverware, in which table function and decorative value merge in a composition of strong scenic presence. Twentieth-century Milanese silver production is in fact distinguished by its ability to combine executive quality, careful workmanship and attention to the formal rendering of objects intended for elegant table settings.
The service is built around a large silver centrepiece, modelled in the form of cauliflower leaves. However, the naturalistic element is not interpreted in a purely descriptive way: the leaves become a broad and articulated structure, capable of giving movement and volume to the whole. The worked surface of the silver also conveys the veins and vegetal irregularities, creating a refined but not excessive decorative effect.
Alongside the centrepiece, the six leaves with glass bowls and the two cruet holders complete the service, giving it a precise convivial function. Silver and glass thus interact in a balanced way, alternating material solidity and transparency.
Overall, this service stands as a work of particular interest for collectors of Italian silverware, capable of combining craftsmanship, compositional originality and naturalistic taste. Its form inspired by the vegetal world also makes it a scenic table object, designed to enhance the table setting with elegance and recognizability.
Description: Hallmarks 245MI – 800, gr. 5478, centrepiece H cm 19x49x37 – leaves cm 18×14.
Hammer Price: € 5.704,00
Online Auction 8 – 18 December 2020 – Silver, sculptures, ceramics, works of art, glass
