Beautiful and rare pair of Artona bookcases designed by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto.
Entirely crafted in ebony plywood and solid rosewood, with leather doors and handles and tempered glass panels, they stand as a testament to the highest level of craftsmanship with which Maxalto was founded in the late 1970s.
Very rare as a pair, they are two distinct elements and therefore extremely versatile within a domestic interior.
Overall excellent condition with minimal signs of time consistent with their nearly 50 years of age.
NB. The price is intended per single bookcase.
Product Name: Pair of Artona Bookcases by Afra and Tobia Scarpa for Maxalto
Designer: Afra and Tobia Scarpa
Year of Design: Late 1970s
Style: Italian modernism with luxurious artisanal accents
Main Materials: Ebony plywood and solid rosewood, leather doors and handles, tempered glass panels
Distinctive Design: Characterized by the use of precious materials and Maxalto’s artisanal workmanship; elegant lines enhanced by the combination of fine woods and leather details
Dimensions: Length 155 cm | Depth 35 cm | Height 210 cm
Comfort: Designed for easy use and comfortable access to the shelves, with generous display and storage space
Typical Use: High-end design furnishing for living rooms, studies, or prestigious offices
Design Icon: These pieces represent one of the most refined expressions of Maxalto production, reflecting the innovation and quality of Italian craftsmanship of the 1970s
Versatility: Extremely versatile, the two bookcases can be placed together or separately, adapting to different areas of the home
Current Design Condition: Excellent overall condition, with minimal signs of time despite their nearly 50 years of age
Additional Notes: Very rare models, particularly valuable and sought after when found as a pair
Afra and Tobia Scarpa were two Italian designers renowned for their work in architecture and industrial design. Afra Bianchin Scarpa (1937–2011) and Tobia Scarpa (born 1935) worked together as a couple both in life and in their professional practice, forming one of the most prolific and influential duos in the Italian design landscape of the 20th century.
Both Afra and Tobia Scarpa graduated in architecture from the IUAV University of Venice, where they studied under prominent architects such as Carlo Scarpa (Tobia’s brother) and Giuseppe Samonà. After completing their studies, they began working together in the studio of architect and designer Carlo Scarpa, where they had the opportunity to develop their distinctive and sophisticated style.
Their collaboration resulted in numerous iconic furniture and interior design projects, often characterized by timeless elegance and meticulous attention to detail. Their works were produced by internationally renowned brands such as B&B Italia, Cassina, and Flos.
Afra and Tobia Scarpa received numerous awards and recognitions throughout their careers, further consolidating their status as pioneers in the field of contemporary design. Their legacy continues to influence generations of designers and design enthusiasts worldwide.
Maxalto is an Italian company specializing in the production of high-quality contemporary design furniture. Founded in 1975 as a subsidiary of the renowned furniture brand B&B Italia, Maxalto is distinguished by its elegant and sophisticated furniture characterized by refined aesthetics and close attention to detail.
The name “Maxalto” derives from the fusion of two words: “Massimo” (meaning maximum in Italian) and “Alto” (meaning high). This name reflects the company’s commitment to offering products of superior quality, both in terms of design and materials.
Maxalto collaborates with some of the most renowned international designers to create iconic pieces that harmoniously combine functionality and aesthetics. Designers who have contributed to Maxalto’s success include Antonio Citterio, Afra and Tobia Scarpa, among many others.
Maxalto furniture is often crafted using precious materials such as solid wood, high-quality leather, and finely finished metals. The company stands out for its ability to combine artisanal tradition with innovative technologies, ensuring the production of durable furniture with strong visual impact.
Thanks to its consolidated reputation in the luxury furniture sector, Maxalto continues to be a preferred choice for those seeking high-quality design furniture to enrich both living and working spaces.