The first Astier de Villatte design I saw was at my friend’s home — a statement porcelain vase. Even without flowers, such an elegant object. Now, I got the chance to visit their new store in Milan, during Salone del Mobile. A poetic, theatrical world that feels as refined as it is unexpected. Among the highlights: a collaboration with artist Serena Carone, including a jewellery box I had already bookmarked on Net-A-Porter.
Astier de Villatte has always followed its own sense of beauty. Ceramics, forgotten perfumes, offbeat guidebooks — all part of their world. This Parisian house continues to intrigue. Always a spark of eccentricity. Always a twist. Over the years, the maison has collaborated with like-minded artists, designers and perfumers. Each brings something exceptional into its orbit.
During Milan Design Week, their collaboration with Serena Carone introduces a series of ceramic works inspired by everyday spills. Shown in the gallery area, her pieces reimagine domestic accidents as scenes of beauty: a teaspoon resting in a pool of coffee, a fallen vase with flowers, a saucepan caught mid-avalanche of spaghetti. The last one I like the best.
Carone’s ceramics and enamels are hand-painted and kiln-fired, turning kitchen chaos into sculptural still lifes. Fragile, funny, and familiar all at once. I feel her. Also from her imagination: ceramic cups with jewellery-like ring handles to playful incense burners — this light-hearted collaboration fits right into the brand’s blend of theatre, wit and finesse.
A quick history. Founded in 1996, this French house has become known for its multifaceted universe. And if you’re wondering what kind of maison dreams up such things — here’s what makes Astier de Villatte, well… Astier de Villatte.
Discover more: www.astierdevillatte.com
All images are taken by author.
