Cesare Lacca attrib. trolley

This sculptural serving trolley, attributed to Cesare Lacca and produced in Italy during the 1960s, presents an expressive interplay of pearwood, brass, and glass. Its two gracefully curved supports intersect to form a double-sided frame, the warm honey tones of the pearwood showcasing fine, straight grain that has mellowed to a soft patina. Brass fittings and castors anchor the structure, their aged surfaces lending a subdued luster against the wood’s warmth.

The trolley’s three glass tiers offer both utility and visual contrast. The top shelf is a simple rectangle of clear glass, framed by integrated brass handles that reinforce the clean geometric outline. Below, two lower shelves feature wave-cut edges that follow the gentle incline of the supports, their irregular profiles introducing a dynamic, organic counterpoint to the rectilinear top. All glass surfaces bear light scratches and occasional nicks, evidence of decades of careful service but without compromising their transparency or structural integrity.

Cesare Lacca was a leading figure in Italian mid-century design, celebrated for his bar carts, magazine racks, and occasional tables that combined fluid wooden forms with metal and glass accents. His work reflects post-war Italy’s embrace of craftsmanship enriched by modernist sensibilities—organic curves, material juxtaposition, and a balance of decorative flourish with functional purpose. This trolley exemplifies those qualities, its sculptural frame evoking movement even when stationary.

This example remains in good vintage condition. The pearwood frame is structurally sound, showing only minor surface dings and patina-worthy marks. The brass wheels and hardware exhibit oxidation consistent with their age, while the glass tiers remain stable despite surface wear. Measuring 51 cm in width, 45 cm in depth, and 77 cm in height (approximately 20 by 17.7 by 30.3 inches), the trolley offers both a compact footprint and a striking silhouette for use as a serving piece or sculptural accent in a modern interior.