Overview
An elegant thermos designed by Aldo Tura and produced in Italy during the 1960s, featuring a tall cylindrical body covered in natural goatskin parchment, enriched by a finely detailed decorative frieze and brass-toned metal elements. A sophisticated object that combines functionality, craftsmanship and the unmistakable material language of the Tura Milano atelier.
 
Description
This thermos reflects Aldo Tura’s refined approach to decorative objects and his exceptional use of natural parchment.
The tall cylindrical body is entirely covered in warm, honey-toned goatskin parchment, whose subtle grain and natural tonal variations give the surface depth and luminosity. Around the upper section runs a finely decorated ornamental band, composed of scrolling green foliage, circular floral motifs and shell-like details in shades of orange, red and gold.
The restrained elegance of the parchment is contrasted by the polished brass-toned metal spout, base and slender handle. The long geometric handle follows the height of the body, emphasising its vertical proportions, while the sculptural pouring spout gives the piece a distinctive and refined silhouette.
Both functional and decorative, the thermos embodies the luxurious character of Italian design from the 1960s and stands as an elegant collectible object in its own right.
 
Design & Function
Conceived as a thermos or insulated serving carafe, the piece features a tall cylindrical body, an elongated side handle and a sculptural metal pouring spout.
The slender handle provides a secure grip while preserving the clean, architectural profile of the object. The curved spout is designed to facilitate pouring and introduces a dynamic visual element to the otherwise rigorous cylindrical form.
Its combination of functionality and decorative refinement makes it suitable for display on a bar cabinet, dining table, console or serving trolley. Today, it may also be appreciated primarily as a sculptural decorative object and an example of Aldo Tura’s distinctive design language.
Materials & Aesthetic
The body is covered in natural goatskin parchment, one of the signature materials associated with the Tura Milano atelier. Its warm beige colouring, delicate grain and natural tonal variations create a luminous and tactile surface.
The ornamental frieze introduces a more elaborate decorative element, with classical-inspired scrolls, foliage and shell motifs rendered in green, orange, red and gold tones. This finely detailed band creates an elegant contrast with the simplicity of the cylindrical body.
The polished brass-toned metal handle, spout and base add warmth and visual structure. Their reflective surfaces complement the soft luminosity of the parchment, creating a sophisticated balance between natural material, decorative detail and precise metalwork.
 
Technical Details
Product: Aldo Tura Mod. 1157D Goatskin Parchment Thermos with Decorative Frieze, 1970
Designer: Aldo Tura
Manufacturer: Tura Milano
Country of Manufacture: Italy
Period: 1970
Materials: Natural goatskin parchment; brass-toned metal
Dimensions: Height 38cm | Diameter 12,5cm
Condition: Please note that this item is in good vintage condition. The natural parchment retains a warm patina, with tonal variations, minor marks and signs of age consistent with the material and the period. The decorative frieze remains clearly visible, with possible light wear consistent with age. The brass-toned metal elements present surface marks, oxidation and patina from previous use. We kindly invite you to examine the photographs carefully and take these characteristics into consideration before purchasing.
Functionality: Thermos, insulated serving carafe and decorative object
 
Collectibility
Objects by Aldo Tura are highly collectible for their luxurious materials, refined craftsmanship and instantly recognisable Italian aesthetic.
This thermos is particularly distinctive for the combination of natural parchment, polished metal and its finely detailed ornamental frieze. Its elegant proportions and unusual decorative treatment make it a refined example of Tura Milano’s production from the 1960s.
It is sold with a certificate of authenticity issued by the Aldo Tura Archive, of which JF Gallery Design is the current custodian, confirming its attribution and its historical and collectible importance.
 
Designer & Manufacturer
Aldo Tura was one of the most distinctive figures in 20th-century Italian decorative design. His work is celebrated for its imaginative forms, luxurious finishes and masterful use of parchment, often combined with brass, glass and richly decorated surfaces.
Through the Tura Milano atelier, he created furniture, barware and decorative objects that blurred the boundary between functional design and collectible art. His pieces are immediately recognisable for their refined craftsmanship and their distinctive balance between traditional materials and modern forms.
This thermos exemplifies that approach: the natural parchment gives the object warmth and visual depth, while the ornamental frieze and sculptural brass-toned metal elements transform a practical serving accessory into an elegant decorative statement.