artist/ CASTIGLIONI

Italie

Achille Castiglioni (1918–2002) was an Italian designer and architect who became an icon of 20th-century design. Born in Milan, he graduated in architecture from the Politecnico di Milano. He initially worked with his brothers Livio and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, then pursued a major solo career after the latter’s death.

A central figure in post-war Italian design, Achille Castiglioni collaborated with major companies such as Flos, Zanotta, Alessi, and Cassina. He designed many iconic objects, including the Arco, Toio, and Snoopy lamps and the Mezzadro chair. His work, both rigorous and playful, has had a profound impact on the history of contemporary design.

Alongside his practice, he taught industrial design in Milan, influencing several generations of designers with his teaching methods based on observation, experimentation, and intelligent use.