Overview
An elegant chest of drawers designed by Gianluigi Gorgoni for Fratelli Turri in the 1980s, belonging to Magna Collection, entirely characterized by the warm and refined appearance of maple burl. The rigorous geometric structure is softened by the natural movement of the wood grain, while the six drawers are completed by distinctive diamond-shaped brass handles.
Description
This sophisticated chest of drawers was designed by Gianluigi Gorgoni for Fratelli Turri during the 1980s.
The piece features a broad rectangular structure organized around six spacious drawers, arranged symmetrically in two vertical rows of three. Its clean architectural proportions create a restrained and elegant composition, allowing the richness of the maple burl to become the principal decorative element.
The entire exterior is distinguished by the luminous golden tones and naturally variegated figuring of the maple burl, which extends across the top, drawer fronts and side panels. The upper surface is further emphasized by a subtle rectangular decorative brass border, reinforcing the precise geometry of the design.
Each drawer is fitted with a small diamond-shaped brass handle, positioned centrally on the drawer front. Their simple geometric form introduces a discreet metallic accent while creating a refined contrast with the warm tones of the maple burl.
The chest rests on a low architectural base with four short geometric feet, giving the substantial volume a slightly elevated appearance while preserving its strong horizontal presence.
A refined example of 1980s Italian design, the piece combines functional storage with carefully balanced proportions, precious materials and understated decorative details.
Design & Function
The absence of superfluous ornamentation places emphasis on proportion, material and geometry. The rectangular body is framed by the slightly projecting top and lower base, while the repeated diamond-shaped handles create a subtle visual rhythm across the front.
The generous upper surface also allows the piece to function naturally as a bedroom chest of drawers or as an elegant storage piece within a living area.
Materials & Aesthetic
The defining feature of the piece is its maple burl, whose naturally irregular figuring creates a delicate interplay of tonal variations across the otherwise rigorous geometric surfaces.
Its warm ivory and honey-colored nuances give the chest an unusually luminous appearance, while the brass handles introduce restrained metallic highlights.
The contrast between the organic movement of the burl and the disciplined architectural construction is central to the aesthetic character of the piece: decorative richness is achieved through the material itself rather than through applied ornament.
Technical Details
Product: Gianluigi Gorgoni Maple Burl and Brass Chest of Drawers for Fratelli Turri
Designer: Gianluigi Gorgoni
Manufacturer: Fratelli Turri
Period: 1980s
Materials: Maple burl, brass
Dimensions: Length: 145cm | Depth: 48cm | Height: 72cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. Minor signs of age may be present, which do not affect its functionality. We kindly invite you to take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Collectibility
This chest of drawers represents the refined decorative approach of Italian furniture design during the 1980s, combining the expressive character of maple burl with a restrained geometric composition. Its association with Gianluigi Gorgoni and Fratelli Turri, together with the extensive use of burl and distinctive brass hardware, makes it an elegant collectible example of the period.
Designer & Manufacturer
Gianluigi Gorgoni was an Italian architect and designer whose work developed across architecture, interiors and furniture design. His furniture reflects an interest in strong geometric forms, carefully balanced proportions and the expressive possibilities of sophisticated materials.
For Fratelli Turri, his designs combined architectural clarity with the luxurious material language characteristic of high-end Italian furniture, resulting in pieces distinguished by refined surfaces, precise detailing and a strong decorative presence.
