Elio Schiavon: Italian Master of Mid-Century Ceramics

Elio Schiavon (1925–2004) was an influential Italian ceramicist whose work bridged the traditions of Venetian craftsmanship with the innovation of post-war modernism. Born in Arzergrande, Padua, Schiavon studied at the School of Ceramic Art in Nove and later at the Venice Academy of Art, where he trained under Andrea Parini. His career quickly gained recognition through prestigious awards such as Faenza Giovani and Bevilacqua La Masa, as well as international exhibitions in Venice, Stockholm, Helsinki, and Munich.

Renowned for his experimental surfaces and sculptural forms, Schiavon pioneered a style that blended abstract geometry with richly textured glazes and metallic accents, a hallmark of Italian mid-century modern ceramics. Throughout the 1950s to 1970s, he produced work that epitomized the sophistication of modernist design, placing him among the most important figures in 20th-century decorative arts. His pieces remain highly collectible today, featured in both private and museum collections worldwide.

AP Mid Century Modern carries this exceptional set of two decorative ceramics by Elio Schiavon, a celebrated Italian master of mid-century modern design. These rare works exemplify Schiavon’s distinctive fusion of geometric forms, textured surfaces, and metallic accents, offering collectors and interior designers an opportunity to acquire authentic pieces of 20th-century Italian decorative art.

AP Mid Century Modern is the leading source for authentic mid-century furniture and lighting in the United States. With clients in Palm Beach, Miami, New York, and Los Angeles, our collection showcases the finest examples of 20th-century Italian, French, and American Art Deco and Mid-Century design by important designers including Paolo Buffa, Vladimir Kagan, Osvaldo Borsani, Gio Ponti, Max Ingrand, among others.