For the first time, DIMOREGALLERY is part of Curio, the exhibition platform within Design Miami/Basel, the premier venue for collecting, exhibiting, discussing and creating collectible design.
DIMOREGALLERY presents a unique immersion in masterpieces from the last century. The Milanese Gallery founded by Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci, renowned for emblematic juxtapositions between mid-century collectible pieces and contemporary creations, presents special pieces by Piero Portaluppi — one of the most important Italian architects, urbanologists and academics — created between 1926 and 1929 for a private house.
A sideboard, a dining table and a low table designed by this legendary creator are the protagonists of the set up: displayed in a line up and surrounded by striking furnishings which share Portaluppi’s unique style, eclectic approach, and aesthetics, spanning different influences deriving from Art Déco, late Baroque, Modernism, and Rationalism. The rigorous symmetry and monumental presence are particularly visible in Antti Nurmesniemi armchairs, late baroque decorative elements stand out in Osvaldo Borsani’s wall lamps, whilst the lamps by Angelo Lelii, as well as the Sarfatti 1901 floor light, remind the Art Deco decorative elements. Last but not least, the bamboo chairs and candle holder by Gabriella Crespi exude an eclectic approach.
In dialogue with these historical pieces, referencing Portaluppi’s work, and marking a new collaboration for the Gallery, two pieces by Pierre Marie, renowned contemporary designer and ornamentalist, are featured in the set up. The folding screen in stained glass, commissioned for this project, is inspired by Portaluppi’s sideboard with a contemporary edge. L’Amateur de Parfums tapestry, made using the Aubusson handwoven technique, meets the gallery’s ethos, grounded in craftsmanship and tradition.
Pieces from Dimoremilano’s Oggetti collection, such as the Vaso Maniglia glass vase and the Portafiore plant stand, complement the selection, recalling Portaluppi’s Art Déco period.
Nothing is left to chance. Not even the placement of the pieces: the Dimore duo built a one-point perspective revolving around Piero. The three leading characters are distributed on three different sections following the same central line. Looking at the booth as a painting, visitors can notice how the supporting actors – in this case, the other designers’ objects – create receding parallel lines that appear to converge towards Piero.
“We are honored to participate and to bring key historical and contemporary design pieces to one of the world’s most renowned venues. This exhibit perfectly expresses our admiration and vision of Piero Portaluppi, a pioneer who defined the worlds of architecture and design”, say Britt Moran and Emiliano Salci.
