Gio Ponti

Lisa Ponti, Milan (daughter of the artist)
Private Collection, Italy
Wright, Chicago, December 9, 2007, lot 121
Acquired from the above by the present owner

"Una porta, e nuovo mobili," Domus no. 321, August 1956, pp. 21-24 (for period photographs of Lisa Ponti house including the present lot) 
Laura Falconi, Gio Ponti: Interni, Oggetti, Disegni, 1920-1976, p. 182 (for the present lot in situ)

Overall in very good condition. When viewed in person, the chairs present with a rich teal and cream upholstery, and is accurately represented in the catalogue illustration. The chairs have been reupholstered at some point in the history of the pieces and the upholstery presents with a few surface scratches, minor scattered edge abrasions and light surface soiling consistent with age and gentle use. The proper right armrest of one of the chair with a small tear to the sky, measuring 1 1/8 in. in length and which has been stabilized. The lower edge of the chair on the same side with a line of small abrasions along the back half of the edge, stable. The other chair with approximately 10 small abrasions along the lower edge of the back on the reverse of the chair, stable. The proper right lower front corner with a small loss to the sky, measuring approximately 1/2 x 1/2 in. and not visually distracting. The brass surfaces presents with a few minor surface scratches, minor edge abrasions and a few minor areas of discoloration, commensurate with age and gentle use. Each chair is missing four screws (one on each plate), which does not affect the solidity of the chair, a few screw possibly replaced. A sculptural pair of lounge chairs coming from the artist's family, en suite with lots 318 and 319.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This lot is being sold with a certificate of expertiste from the Gio Ponti Archives. 


The present “Diamond” armchairs and sofas (lots 317-319) by Gio Ponti, were formerly in the collection of the artist’s daughter, Lisa Ponti (illustrated in Domus in 1956 within the context in her Milan apartment).  They were the centerpiece of her highly curated living room, presented amidst an array of works by important designers of the time, including Isamu Noguchi, Tapio Wirkkala, Fausto Melotti, Carlo Mollino, and various other works by Ponti.  The diversity of objects, colors, and textures imparted the space with great dynamism, while the controlled lines and strategic placement of pieces promoted a subdued atmosphere well-suited for conversation and relaxation.

Coming from such a fashionable and historical interior, one can image the vibrant intellectual conversation that the present seating suite must have hosted.  In fact, Ponti designed this model with the specific purpose of facilitating conversation.  Their deep, wide seats are comfortable, inviting, and can accommodate a large group of guests.  Their profiles are intentionally low to allow the sitter to drape their arm over the backrest as they settle into conversation.  Moreover, this seating group itself presents a worthy and captivating topic for discussion, with its sleek silhouette, dynamic, faceted geometry, and fascinating provenance.