Tartaro Nightstands Sculpture 99 by Luciano Frigerio for Frigerio di Desio

Exceptional pair of nightstands from the “Tartaro” series by Luciano Frigerio for Frigerio di Desio, designed in the late 1960s.

Still little known, the “Tartar” line is particularly special as it was the very first production, at the end of the 1960s, of the series “Sculpture 99 – furniture as sculpture in a limited edition of 99 multiples.” It all began with this model, conceived as an expression of sculptural forms in furniture. It was later followed by other lines such as Barium, Diamante, and many more.

These nightstands are therefore a true collector’s item, created by one of the boldest furniture makers and designers of the past century-an authentic piece of history from a company that left a lasting mark on its era. Only 98 other pairs of these nightstands exist.

They come with a certificate of authenticity issued by the Frigerio heirs.

Made of concave and convex elements in African rosewood, with brass knob handles.

Overall condition is excellent, as seen in the photographs, with only minor signs of age due to their nearly 60 years of history. Each drawer bears the original manufacturer’s mark.

Product Name: Pair of “Tartarus” Nightstands
Designer: Luciano Frigerio
Year of Design: Late 1960s
Style: Italian sculptural modernism, collectible design
Primary Materials: African rosewood, brass
Distinctive Design: Concave and convex volumes, brass knob handles, branded drawers
Dimensions: Height 56.5 cm Width 52 cm Depth 34 cm
Comfort: Practical and functional, with spacious drawers and ergonomic handles
Typical Use: Bedroom nightstands or accent pieces in refined interiors
Design Icon: First model in the renowned “Scultura 99 – furniture as sculpture in limited edition of 99 pieces” series, precursor to the Barium and Diamante lines and more
Versatility: Suitable for vintage, modern, or collector settings due to their strong aesthetic impact and historical value
Current Condition: In excellent original condition, with minimal signs of aging consistent with time; includes certificate of authenticity issued by the Frigerio heirs
Additional Notes: Please note this is a vintage item in excellent condition. Minor signs of wear may be present, which do not affect its functionality. Kindly consider these characteristics before purchasing.

Please note: This item requires a CITES certificate for international shipment.
JF Gallery Design will handle the application and issuance of the certificate.
Estimated processing time: 2 to 4 weeks.

Luciano Frigerio, born in Desio in 1928, left an indelible mark on the world of design and furniture making, inheriting a family tradition of fine cabinetmaking. His early education, culminating in a diploma in accounting from the Pius XI College, was enriched by a deep passion for furniture design and musical composition.

The socio-economic context of 1960s Brianza provided fertile ground for entrepreneurship in the furniture arts, and Frigerio seized this opportunity. His visits to renowned workshops and encounters with key figures such as Gio Ponti and Franco Albini inspired the transformation of his family business into a company with an international market focus. In 1973, he was awarded the title of Commendatore of the Italian Republic in recognition of his dedication to fine woodworking.

A pivotal point in his career came with the realization of his dream: furniture as unique artwork. Together with a team of expert craftsmen, Frigerio created “sculpture furniture in solid wood” and “sculptural beds in cast bronze,” offering a refined alternative to the mass production of the era. These unique pieces embodied artisanal excellence and the fusion of precious materials, positioning themselves as true artworks in the design world.

His collaborations with renowned Italian architects and designers-including Franco Albini, Sergio Asti, and Paolo Portoghesi-further solidified Frigerio’s status in the design community. His belief that architects could create unique furniture for high-end cabinetmaking guided the company’s philosophy, which was defined by the production of numbered and signed pieces, each one of a kind. During the 1970s to 1990s, the company expanded by opening ten showrooms across Italy’s major cities.

Frigerio’s contributions were formally recognized in 1989 with the title of Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. His works are now found in prestigious art galleries in Italy and abroad, earning accolades at international design fairs such as the Salone Internazionale del Mobile Italiano and Abitare il Tempo.

Permanent exhibitions in Milan-including at Galleria del Sagrato and the “Art Gallery” on Via Montenapoleone-attest to Frigerio’s enduring and celebrated presence in the Italian art scene. His legacy lives on through exclusive creations that celebrate the union of functionality, aesthetic vision, and masterful craftsmanship. Today, his influence continues to shape contemporary design, remaining a benchmark of…