Set of seven Murano glass glasses made by Carlo Scarpa for Venini in the 1930s

Ø cm 6 h cm 14

Carlo Scarpa (2 June 1906 – 28 November 1978) was an Italian architect and designer considered one of the most significant figures of 20th century architecture. His work is characterized by sensitivity to context, an emphasis on materials and craftsmanship, and the use of subtle details to create a sense of place.

Scarpa's first major architectural commission was the Olivetti showroom in Venice, which he designed in 1936. The showroom was a turning point for Scarpa and established his reputation as one of the leading architects of the modern movement. Over the next four decades, Scarpa designed a wide range of buildings, including museums, libraries, houses and gardens.

Scarpa's work is difficult to classify, as he draws on a wide range of influences from various periods in architectural history. He was particularly interested in the work of Venetian Renaissance architects, such as Andrea Palladio and Jacopo Sansovino, and often used their principles in his own designs. Scarpa was also influenced by the work of Japanese architects, such as Tadao Ando and Kazuo Shinohara. He deeply appreciated Japanese minimalism and craftsmanship and incorporated these elements into his work.