2024 marks a special year for Italian design giant Molteni&C as it celebrates its 90th anniversary. Among various celebrations, the brand has released a commemorative book titled “Molteni Mondo: An Italian Design Story.”
The book chronicles Molteni&C’s journey since its founding in 1934 by Angelo and Giuseppina Molteni. Curated by author Spencer Bailey, the book draws inspiration from cinema, with art direction by Beda Achermann and photography by Californian photographer Jeff Burton. Bailey describes the Molteni headquarters as reminiscent of a Hollywood studio, capturing the dynamic and cinematic essence of the brand.
The book highlights the rich history witnessed by the Molteni factory, where some of the world’s most esteemed designers and architects have created iconic pieces of Italian design. Molteni&C president Carlo Molteni emphasizes the company’s dedication to collaborating with designers to find innovative solutions, a theme echoed throughout the publication.
The monograph includes contributions from longtime collaborators like Jean Nouvel, who wrote the introduction, and Jacques Herzog, co-founder of Herzog & de Meuron, who provided the postscript. Chapters are dedicated to notable designers such as Vincent Van Duysen, Ron Gilad, Jasper Morrison, Tobia Scarpa, and Patricia Urquiola. It also details the company’s production processes and technological advancements over the years, along with a special insert on the legacy of Gio Ponti and his collaboration with Molteni&C.
Published by Rizzoli, “Molteni Mondo: An Italian Design Story” is available exclusively through Molteni&C until September 2024, when it will be released worldwide. Celebrate Molteni&C’s remarkable legacy and explore the rich tapestry of Italian design history through this beautifully crafted monograph.
