The Shadowed Muse: Fornasetti "Themes & Variations" Plate #114 (Half Face)

A striking and minimalist porcelain wall plate from the celebrated "Themes & Variations" (Tema e Variazioni) series by Atelier Fornasetti.

This dramatic variation, identified as Number 114 in the series, presents Piero Fornasetti's muse, Lina Cavalieri, in severe chiaroscuro. The design depicts only the left profile of her face emerging from a deep black void, reminiscent of a crescent moon or a solar eclipse. By obscuring half of her iconic features in shadow, Fornasetti creates an air of mystery and melancholy, emphasizing the graphic power of her gaze even when partially hidden. The stark contrast between the bright white porcelain and the heavy black transfer print makes this one of the most modern and bold entries in the collection.

Markings:
Reverse: Bears the standard Fornasetti mark (eye, hand, and brush logo) inscribed Tema e Variazioni / Fornasetti Milano / Made in Italy with green undermark for Arzburg, the maker of the porcelain blank.

Number: Hand-numbered or printed 114 (referencing the specific variation).

Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips, cracks, or surface wear to the transfer print.

Measurements:
Diameter: 10 1/4 inches (26.0 cm)
Height: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Historical Context:

While many plates in the series adorn Cavalieri with surreal props (like mustaches, spectacles, or crowns), variation #114 relies purely on lighting and negative space to transform her image. It reflects Fornasetti's mastery of graphic design and his ability to alter the viewer's perception of a familiar subject simply by changing the context of light and dark.

About the "Themes & Variations" Series: The "Themes & Variations" (Tema e Variazioni) series is arguably Piero Fornasetti's most famous and enduring artistic legacy. The series began in 1952 after Fornasetti stumbled upon the face of Lina Cavalieri, a 19th-century operatic soprano and celebrated beauty, in an old French magazine. Captivated by her classically perfect, enigmatic features, he adopted her visage as his ultimate muse and archetype. Over the course of his life, he obsessively reimagined her face in more than 350 distinct variations"”transforming her into everything from a sun, a thief, and a clock, to surreal objects like the "Eclipse" seen here. As Fornasetti famously explained, "I began to make them and I never stopped," proving that a single idea could provide endless creative possibilities.

(Ref: NY10979-crn)


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good condition

Dimensions:
Height: 10 in.
Width: 10 in.
Depth: 0.75 in.

Category: Decorative Plates
Origin: Italy
Materials: Porcelain
Creator: Brand: Fornasetti; Artist: Piero Fornasetti

Shipping:

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Location: This item ships from Downingtown, PA

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Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good condition