A rare and highly decorative Aldo Tura carafe dating to the 1960s, exemplifying the luxurious materials and distinctive aesthetic that established Tura as one of the leading figures in post-war Italian design. Combining sculptural form with practical functionality, the piece reflects the glamour and sophistication associated with mid-century Italian entertaining.

The body is clad in Tura's characteristic lacquered parchment, displaying rich mottled tones of deep green beneath a lustrous high-gloss finish. Applied to the front is a striking gilt depiction of a stylised horse's head, rendered in an elegant classical manner and richly detailed with ornamental harness and tassel decoration. The contrast between the luminous green ground and the gilt motif creates a refined and highly distinctive visual effect.

The carafe is fitted with a sculptural brass handle and an elegant gilt brass mounted rim incorporating a flowing asymmetrical pouring lip. The quality of the metalwork complements the richness of the lacquered parchment and demonstrates the meticulous craftsmanship associated with Tura's Milanese workshop.

Retaining its original Creazione Tura label to the underside, the piece represents an excellent example of the designer's work during the height of his career. Aldo Tura became internationally renowned for his innovative use of lacquered parchment and luxurious finishes, creating furniture and accessories that combined traditional craftsmanship with a uniquely glamorous Italian modernism.

Both functional and decorative, this carafe is equally suited for use in a bar setting or as a sculptural decorative object. The unusual horse-head decoration and striking colour palette make it a particularly desirable example of Tura's work and a sophisticated addition to any collection of twentieth-century Italian design.

Condition is good overall and commensurate with age and use. The lacquered parchment surface remains well preserved with some minor age-related wear and light surface marks. The brass mounts display an attractive patina consistent with age, and the original manufacturer's label remains present to the underside. Please refer to the photographs.

Dimensions: 21.5cm high, 16cm wide, 13cm deep