Achille Castiglioni plant stand

This is the “Albero” plant stand, designed by Achille Castiglioni and produced by Zanotta in Italy during the 1980s. The plant stand features a unique and functional design composed of white-lacquered tubular steel, with a tripod base and a vertical stem. Eight black polyamide circular trays project horizontally from angled supports, arranged in a staggered, spiraling formation. This allows plants or objects to be displayed at varying heights while maintaining balance and visibility from all sides, adding a dynamic element to the piece.

The base consists of three outward-curving legs with black plastic footings, providing structural stability while maintaining a light and airy silhouette. The trays are molded in glossy black polyamide, each with a central drain pattern and a recessed edge, designed to securely hold small to medium-sized planters. The offset arms are welded directly into the vertical shaft, ensuring rigidity and contributing to the piece’s radial symmetry. The central support features a subtle seam where the two primary vertical elements join, highlighting the precision of the design.

Achille Castiglioni (1918–2002) was one of the most influential Italian designers of the 20th century, known for his inventive, playful, and functional designs. Often collaborating with his brothers Pier Giacomo and Livio, Castiglioni was associated with key postwar Italian design movements. His work is deeply rooted in industrial design logic, transforming everyday forms into objects of aesthetic and conceptual clarity. Castiglioni’s designs are included in major museum collections worldwide.

The “Albero” plant stand aligns with Castiglioni’s broader body of work, emphasizing functional modularity combined with sculptural expressiveness. Produced by Zanotta, a company known for its high-quality manufacture and collaborations with avant-garde designers, this plant stand reflects the peak of Italian postmodern industrial design from the late 20th century.

The condition of this example is very good, with only light signs of use. There is some minor surface wear to the lacquer consistent with age, but no structural damage. The original designer label and tag, featuring Castiglioni’s photograph and a list of his designs for Zanotta, remain attached to the frame.

The dimensions of the plant stand are 155 cm in height and 61 cm in diameter (approximately 61 x 24 inches).