Cosmic Cabinet of Curiosities: Fornasetti "Zodiac Pharmacopoeia" Capricorn Plate
Circa 1960s

Discover a witty fusion of ancient astronomy, classic apothecaries, and mid-century Italian design with this unique porcelain plate by the celebrated Piero Fornasetti (1913-1988). This piece is Number 9 in the highly collectible limited-edition series, "Gli Zodiaci Farmacopei" (The Zodiac Pharmacopoeia), representing the earth sign Capricorn (CAPRICORNVS).

Design and Detail:
The design masterfully combines astrological and medical themes through Fornasetti's signature trompe-l'oeil style:

The Zodiac: The plate centers on a dramatic illustration of the Sea-Goat, the mythical creature representing Capricorn, beautifully emblazoned with a constellation of golden stars. It is framed at the top by the Italian dates of the sign: 21 DICEMBRE - 19 GENNAIO.

The Pharmacopoeia: This illustration is cleverly set within the pages of an open, ancient reference book. The text humorously lists astrological attributes as if they were medical diagnoses, including colore: nero (color: black), pietra: zaffiro (stone: sapphire), qualita: perseveranza (quality: perseverance), and difetto: misantropia (fault: misanthropy).

Apothecary Setting: Surrounding the book are meticulously detailed apothecary jars and vessels rendered in stark black, brown, and metallic gold. This includes a glass bottle labeled ROSARUM to the left and a round vessel marked Rofe bianch to the right, completing the illusion of a magical medical guide.

Measurements:
Diameter: 9 1/2 inches (24.1 cm)
Height: 1 inch (2.5 cm)

Reverse Marks: On the reverse of the the plate there reads: "Gli Zodiaci Farmacopei, No 9 / Especially made for Crinos by Fornasetti," alongside the famous Fornasetti hand and brush mark, and "MILANO / Made in Italy".

Historical Context: A Corporate Commission with Classic Charm

This plate is a fascinating piece of Italian design and corporate history. It is particularly unique because it was a special commission made exclusively for Crinos, a prominent Italian pharmaceutical company.

During the 1960s economic boom, it was common for leading companies to commission high-end artists and designers like Fornasetti to create limited-edition gifts for their elite clients and partners. Fornasetti brilliantly leveraged the concept of a "pharmacopoeia"-an official book listing medicinal drugs-and replaced the clinical drug descriptions with the cures and characteristics of the Zodiac. This imbued the corporate gift with his trademark surrealism, classical scholarship, and highly graphic style.

Reference: NY10391-impx


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

Origin:
Italy

Creator:
Brand: Piero Fornasetti; Artist: Piero Fornasetti; Designer: Piero Fornasetti

Materials & Techniques:
Porcelain

Details:
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: Italy

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; God condition