COLLECTION NAME:
Luxury Lab
Record
Product:
Michael Graves Oval Tray
Brand:
Alessi
Description:
The MG34 oval tray, designed in 2005 by Michael Graves for Alessi, is a notable piece in the realm of luxury homeware. Crafted from 18/10 stainless steel with a mirror-polished finish and featuring a polyamide knob, the tray reflects Graves’ commitment to merging functionality with art. Part of a collection that aimed to bring joy and creativity into domestic environments, the tray was designed to hold the Michael Graves creamer and sugar bowl. Embracing irony, eclecticism, and a mix of styles, the MG34 soon became a staple in postmodern design. Featuring a combination of functional elegance and decorative elements that challenge the minimalist ethos of modernism, its aesthetic draws from various influences, including Art Deco and Pop Art, which reflect the broader cultural shifts of the late 20th century. The tray emerged during a time when designers began to prioritize user experience and emotional connection over strict functionality. Graves’ approach to the MG34 tray showcases this shift by transforming a simple object into a source of delight and imagination within the home. This aligns with the postmodernist idea that everyday items can possess artistic value and contribute to personal expression.
Founded in 1921, Alessi is known for its high-quality housewares and kitchen utensils, collaborating with leading designers, and maintaining a strong commitment to Italian craftsmanship and design principles. Partnering with artists and designers including Salvador Dalí and Philippe Starck, the family-owned company values functional objects that demonstrate the highest aesthetic creative expressions. Alessi is a pivotal player in the design world, celebrated for its innovative approach to everyday household items that merge form and function. Alessi’s products, such as the MG34 Michael Graves oval tray, reflect this blend of creativity and utility, making design accessible to all.
Founded in 1921, Alessi is known for its high-quality housewares and kitchen utensils, collaborating with leading designers, and maintaining a strong commitment to Italian craftsmanship and design principles. Partnering with artists and designers including Salvador Dalí and Philippe Starck, the family-owned company values functional objects that demonstrate the highest aesthetic creative expressions. Alessi is a pivotal player in the design world, celebrated for its innovative approach to everyday household items that merge form and function. Alessi’s products, such as the MG34 Michael Graves oval tray, reflect this blend of creativity and utility, making design accessible to all.
Category:
Lifestyle & Interiors
Type:
Serveware
Relevant Department:
INDS, IDUS, ADBR