This rare and coveted collectors item is the 'Tema E Variazioni' (translated to Themes and Variations) umbrella stand by Piero Fornasetti, circa 1960s Italy, signed underneath.

This hefty cylindrical umbrella bin is made with lithographic transfer and lacquered metal that has a black background with contrasting keyhole motif with brass trim and brass feet. Excellent piece of functional art to hold your umbrellas or use for other creative storage ideas. Excellent craftsmanship and quality that you just can't get in todays items.... and since it has great heft (weighted) you don't have to worry about it tipping over.

The 'Tema E Variazioni' aka 'Themes and Variations' series is documented in the book "Fornasetti, The Complete Universe". This collection featured a signature portrait of a woman who Fornasetti became fascinated with. Originally found from an illustration in a nineteenth century magazine, he gave her the name Lina Cavalieri and created numerous variations of her face on porcelain plates starting in 1952 and throughout the decades it has become a pop icon as famous today as Andy Warhol's Marilyn.

Lina, the face used for Tema E Variazioni, has been redesigned in hundreds of variations, the variation used for the umbrella stand in this listing is Linas partial face and single eye peeping through a keyhole. The keyhole motif was also later utilized in the 'Serratura' corner cabinet and table lamp as well as the 'La Chiave Nero' scent sphere.

This rare piece is sought after by interior designers and collectors alike. Perfect piece to add a little splash of whimsy and intrigue into your interior decor.

Contact us for more details on our collection of Fornasetti lamps, tables, bar carts, mirrors, umbrella stands and more.

This Pierro Fornassetti Keyhole cylindrical umbrella holder from the Tema E Variazioni series would work great in a Mid-Century Modern, Scandanavian Modern or Danish Modern home or penthouse apartment but could also look fantastic in a Contemporary or Post-Modern room. Also consider mixing it up in a Traditional, Transitional, Hollywood Regency, French Neoclassical or Art Deco room with a splash of juxtaposition and trompe-l'œil. Would also be an apt choice in a commercial project such as a hotel lobby lounge or members club, creative design studio or high-rise executive office. Consider using as a dining table, breakfast table, game table, center table, cafe table, meeting table or work table.

*The umbrella used in the photos for staging purposes is not included in the sale.

MEASUREMENTS:

H 23" x 10.5" Diameter

CONDITION:

Very good vintage condition. Still has some age and light patina, more-so on the inner portion of the bin. Excellent collectors example.