Famous designers of the past: Charles Rennie Mackintosh

In the 19th century it was not uncommon to be at the same time a designer, an architect and a painter. Charles Rennie Mackintoch, one of the most influential "Art Nouveau" designers was all of these at the same time. He wanted to build and design for real people, individuals, and not for the masses. His concern was not only to satisfy the practical needs of people but to allow them to live with works of art. This is a far cry from the concept of "good design" as developed in the United States in the fifties, an ethic of utilitarianism as the main goal of a society of mass products


When he arrived in London in 1915 Charles Rennie Mackintosh produced more than 120 designs for the textile industry.

carnation 1915

Waves 1915

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The attraction of the void

A chair made by Tecno (Italy) and designed by Valeria Borsani in the 60's. Mustard yellow velvet and an aluminium structure. The oil painting is by Charles Lacoste (1870-1959). The bronze sculpture is by Will Horwitt (1934-1985). Born in New York city, Will was a monumental sculptor influenced by Brancusi.

A laminated chair by SHIRO KURAMATA (1934-1991) . He's known as one of the most famous "industrial designers" in Japan. He's one of the most expensive designer of the 20th century .

A chair by the Australian designer MARC NEWSON one of the word's foremost designers. He worked for many commercial brands such as Ideal Standard, Samsonite, Tefal, Alessi, Ford, Quantas, Magis , Cappellini. His work is among the highest selling in auctions.

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The Illusion of the blank page

This child's dress was made in the 18th century. The colors of the embroidery are so vivid that it seems almost new. Today the same fabric would cost about $2000 a yard. In the 18th century this kind of fabric was even more expensive ( the value of clothes was often an important part of the estate , especially when you compare it to the value of real estate in the 18th century).

The next piece was designed by Christian Lacroix. He has a very extensive knowledge of the way antique fabrics were made as you can see.

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Drinking with style

If dishwashers existed in the 18th century they would be few if any beautiful engraved glasses like these left. They were probably made in Holland or Germany. In spite of the fact that many wine lovers think that engraved glasses are not the most appropriate to the wine’s robe, I don’t mind them for drinking Roederer Cristal champagne.

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