Tura, Aldo

In the rich panorama of twentieth-century Italian design, Aldo Tura emerges as a key figure, whose diverse and exciting oeuvre embodies the very essence of craftsmanship and sophisticated aesthetics. Born in 1909 in Brianza, Italy, Tura has left an indelible legacy in the world of furniture and interiors, thanks to his creative ingenuity and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship excellence.

Tura went through distinct phases in his career, exploring a variety of aesthetics, influences and finishes, making his life's work both exciting and diverse. Despite these evolutions, one constant has remained: his singular devotion to a unique material, lacquered goatskin. This eccentric, glossy and luxurious surface has become his signature, as have eggshell, parchment and leather, which he has also masterfully incorporated into his creations.

In 1939, Tura founded his own furniture production company in Lombardy, laying the foundations for his brilliant career. His early work covered a diverse range of pieces, from tables to decorative lamps, each a testament to his exceptional talent and commitment to quality and innovation. He later expanded into bar furnishings, creating rolling carts, cabinets and a range of accessories such as ice buckets and cocktail shakers, all adorned with his distinctive touch.

In the 1950s, Tura pushed the boundaries of his art by incorporating hand-painted figurative panels on the surface of his cabinets, serving utensils and other pieces. He even ventured to reproduce famous works by artists such as Monet and Bruegel the Elder, as well as motifs inspired by medieval art, sometimes inserting these paintings into furniture in the shape of oversized books, adding a unique artistic dimension to his work.

Tura's singular approach to design set him apart from most of his Italian contemporaries. Although he shared their respect for traditional Italian craftsmanship and artisanal techniques, he refused to follow the growing trend towards mass-produced industrial furniture. Instead, he preferred to create small, meticulously handcrafted collections, embodying an unwavering commitment to excellence and authenticity.

Today, a Tura piece is a precious rarity, sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts the world over. The Tura company continues to operate in Brianza, perpetuating the eponymous designer's legacy by promoting the Italian craftsmanship and eclectic materials for which he is renowned. Aldo Tura was much more than just a designer, he was a visionary whose creative imprint continues to shine through his work, illuminating interiors and spirits with timeless elegance.