Flatware

c. 1951

Designer

Gio Ponti, Italian, 1891-1979: Born: Milan, Italy; Work Locations: Milan, Italy

Manufacturer

Krupp Italiana: Work Locations: Milan, Italy

Country

Italy

Object

flatware set

Medium

Stainless steel

Accession Number

1976.432.1-8

Credit Line

Source Unknown

Gio Ponti, Flatware, about 1951. Stainless steel. Manufactured by Krupp Italiana, Milan for Fraser’s, San Francisco. Denver Art Museum: General acquisition funds, 1976.432.2-3; .5; .8.

Inscription

Stamp "Ponti Fraser's, Italy"

Department

Architecture and Design

Collection

Architecture and Design

This object is currently on view

Gio Ponti simplified the traditional forms associated with flatware. The fork—actually a “forchetta-cucchiaio,” also known as a spork—is one of Ponti’s innovations. Its prongs have been shortened and its bowl deepened to create a scoop to catch sauce, an essential part of Italian cuisine. The short, wedge-like blade of the knife corresponds to the actual usable cutting surface of the utensil.

Exhibition History

“Gio Ponti: Designer of a Thousand Talents” — Denver Art Museum, 10/24/2021 – 12/31/2022