Enzo Mari (1932–2020) for Danese Milano
Java Sugar Bowl with Spoon, 1969–1970
Melamine sugar bowl designed in 1969 with the original stainless steel spoon designed in 1970.
Signed and fully marked underneath.
Height: 9.5 cm (3.75 in.)
Diameter: 14.3 cm (5.63 in.)
Description
An exceptionally early and complete example of Java, Enzo Mari's celebrated sugar bowl for Danese Milano, accompanied by its original matching spoon. Designed in 1969, with the spoon introduced shortly thereafter in 1970, the set perfectly embodies Mari's uncompromising philosophy that everyday objects should unite beauty, intelligence and functionality without unnecessary decoration.
The design is remarkably restrained. A pure cylindrical vessel is paired with a gently asymmetrical lid that incorporates an opening for the spoon, allowing the utensil to remain part of the composition even when the container is closed. The result is an object in which every element serves a purpose while contributing to a harmonious sculptural whole.
Enzo Mari is widely regarded as one of the most important industrial designers of the twentieth century. Throughout his career he sought to challenge conventional manufacturing and consumer culture by creating objects defined by clarity, longevity and honest construction. His work for Danese Milano became instrumental in shaping post-war Italian design, placing him alongside masters such as Bruno Munari, Achille Castiglioni, Vico Magistretti, Ettore Sottsass, Joe Colombo and Marco Zanuso.
Danese Milano occupies a unique place within the history of modern design. Under the direction of Bruno Danese and Jacqueline Vodoz, the company collaborated with many of Italy's most influential designers to produce objects that blurred the boundaries between industrial design, art and architecture. Today these early Danese editions are represented in museum collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and remain among the most sought-after examples of Italian Modernism.
The Java sugar bowl is one of Mari's most iconic domestic designs. Its sculptural silhouette, exceptional functionality and timeless minimalism have ensured its enduring relevance more than five decades after its introduction. Early complete examples retaining the original spoon and displaying the crisp white finish are increasingly difficult to find.
Condition
Excellent original condition. The melamine retains a remarkably bright, clean white colour with an exceptional presentation. Signed and fully marked underneath. Complete with the original Enzo Mari stainless steel spoon. There is one small, stable hairline crack to the underside of the lid, visible upon close inspection, but otherwise the set remains in beautifully preserved, untouched condition and displays exceptionally well.
