The Fantastic Mr. Fornasetti The fantastical world of the famed atelier with Barnaba Fornasetti

Every single detail on every porcelain object, accessory or piece of furniture has been printed, lacquered and coloured by hand, a focus that is so intent on perfection that it in turn limits production to the masses. Each year, with bated breathe, an increasing number of loyal Fornasetti fans and design connoisseurs are placed on a waiting list for the most sought-after pieces.

The fervent adore for the label is in no doubt due to Fornasetti’s dedication, a trait that he inherited from his beloved father. He recalls his fondest childhood memory of being three years old, and bringing a hydrangea leaf from their garden to his father, putting a daisy flower on it as a present. His father made a tray with that exact same décor, the leaf and the flower, and put it into production. The greatest lesson his father taught him? “The imagination. Moreover, being an authoritarian father, he strengthened my nature and he taught me to fight and resist against conformism and mediocrity.”

Christmas in the Fornasetti home was never one full of tradition, but instead, is a time where he can take the time out to reflect on the year gone by. “I go away with the woman I love, or some friends. Or I stay at home to enjoy the peaceful and absolute solitude of making what I rarely can make during the year.”

But his one enduring ritual is the “Calendario” plate, the perfect gift for the holidays. “My father created the first calendar plate in 1968 as a good omen for the New Year. I’m carrying on this legacy and this year we reached the 50th calendar plate. Many people collect it and the fact that it has always been limited edition makes it more desirable.”