Overview
Striking “Alveo” sideboard designed by Willy Rizzo for Mario Sabot in the 1970s, characterized by a rigorous architectural silhouette and a sophisticated combination of glossy black lacquer and polished chrome-plated metal. The exceptionally clean rectangular volume is animated by three distinctive circular chrome handles, creating a bold graphic contrast against the deep black surface.
A highly representative example of Rizzo’s glamorous approach to 1970s Italian furniture, the piece combines geometric minimalism with luxurious materials and carefully executed details.
Description
The sideboard features a long, low-profile rectangular structure entirely finished in glossy black lacquer. Its imposing yet restrained geometry is emphasized by
polished chrome vertical profiles positioned at both outer edges of the façade.
The front is divided into three sections, each composed of an upper drawer and a lower cabinet door. The six elements are visually integrated into an almost uninterrupted black surface, preserving the monolithic appearance of the cabinet when closed.
At the centre of each section is a characteristic circular chrome-plated handle, conceived as both a practical opening element and a decorative motif. Their sculptural ring shape introduces a strong graphic rhythm across the otherwise minimal façade.
When opened, the sideboard reveals three drawers positioned above three spacious storage compartments. The central drawer is illuminated when opened. The contrast between the highly reflective metal details and the glossy black lacquer gives the piece the sophisticated, glamorous character associated with Willy Rizzo’s furniture designs of the period.
Design & Aesthetic
The Alveo sideboard is built around a deliberate tension between pure geometry and decorative luxury. Its elongated horizontal body has an almost architectural quality, while the circular handles interrupt the severe rectangular composition with a recurring geometric accent.
The polished chrome elements framing the sides reinforce the silhouette and visually define the front elevation. The use of black lacquer creates depth and reflection, allowing the appearance of the cabinet to subtly change according to the surrounding light.
The result is distinctly 1970s: dramatic yet controlled, luxurious without excessive ornamentation, and particularly suited to sophisticated contemporary interiors as well as interiors dedicated to collectible Italian design.
Materials & Aesthetic
The cabinet is finished in high-gloss black lacquer, whose reflective surface enhances the substantial proportions and clean geometry of the piece.
Polished chrome-plated metal is used for the circular handles and the vertical decorative profiles positioned along the front edges. These bright metallic details create a sharp contrast with the black lacquer and give the sideboard its characteristic jewel-like appearance.
The combination of glossy lacquer, mirrored metal and strong geometric forms is closely associated with the luxurious vocabulary of Italian interiors during the 1970s.
Technical Details
Product: Willy Rizzo Alveo Sideboard for Mario Sabot, Italy 1970
Designer: Willy Rizzo
Manufacturer: Mario Sabot
Period: 1970s
Origin: Italy
Materials: Glossy black lacquered wood, chrome-plated metal
Dimensions: Length: 177cm | Depth: 47,5cm | Height: 76cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present, including light surface marks and wear consistent with age and previous use, particularly on the lacquered and metal surfaces. These characteristics do not compromise the overall appearance of the piece. We kindly invite you to take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Collectibility
The Alveo represents an excellent example of Willy Rizzo’s furniture production during the 1970s, a period in which his work developed a particularly recognizable vocabulary based on luxurious finishes, strong geometric volumes and metallic detailing.
Its distinctive circular hardware, black lacquered surfaces and chrome framing make the model immediately recognizable and particularly representative of the sophisticated aesthetic associated with Rizzo’s interiors and furniture.
Today, original examples of Rizzo’s 1970s furniture are increasingly appreciated within the international collectible design market, particularly pieces retaining their characteristic period materials and decorative details.
Designer & Manufacturer
Willy Rizzo (1928–2013) was an Italian photographer and designer whose furniture is closely associated with the glamorous interiors of the 1960s and 1970s. Drawing on his experience within the worlds of fashion, photography and international society, Rizzo developed furniture characterized by strong architectural forms and luxurious combinations of lacquer, chrome, brass, glass and richly finished woods.
Mario Sabot was an Italian furniture manufacturer active during the second half of the twentieth century and particularly associated with the production of distinctive modern furniture during the 1960s and 1970s. The company collaborated with important designers of the period, producing pieces that combined Italian craftsmanship with the bold materials and experimental forms that defined the era.
