Italian Square Lucite Catchall Dish, 1970s

Italy, 1970s. Lucite — a clear acrylic plastic — appealed to designers for its crystalline purity and its ability to catch the light like cut glass. This square catchall is a fine illustration. Carved from a solid block of lucite, it features grooved sides recalling the work of cut crystal, and a circular hollow at its centre. The perfectly transparent material plays on reflections and visually lightens the object despite its thickness. Fair condition: the piece has one tiny, barely perceptible chip (visible in the photos), along with a few slight marks of age on the corners. Nothing that detracts from it. It comes from a Milanese collection. Measuring 15 cm square and 4 cm high, this catchall sits on a desk or a coffee table, to gather small everyday objects. A luminous, understated piece.