Italian Art Deco Nightstands in Parchment, Attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, 1940s

Pair of Italian nightstands attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, distinguished by their refined construction and particularly elaborate use of ribbed woodwork, a defining feature that gives the two pieces a strong architectural character.

The cases are crafted in warm-toned wood and feature fully ribbed sides, with closely spaced horizontal wooden strips running across the sides and continuing around the corners. This repeated linear treatment creates a subtle sense of movement and gives depth to an otherwise compact form. The detailing is both decorative and structural in appearance, reflecting the level of craftsmanship associated with high-quality Italian cabinetmaking of the period.

The fronts are arranged around a large open compartment, divided by an internal shelf, with a single drawer positioned centrally. The drawer is faced in parchment, its pale, subtly textured surface providing a restrained contrast to the darker wood. The use of parchment, combined with the finely worked sides, is characteristic of the sophisticated material combinations found in Italian furniture of the mid-20th century.

Particular attention is drawn to the brass handles, with their elongated geometric form and finely articulated central detail. Rather than functioning as purely practical elements, the handles contribute to the overall composition of the fronts, reinforcing the restrained and geometric language of the design.

The nightstands rest on a solid, recessed wooden plinth, providing visual weight to the lower section while allowing the upper structure to retain a lighter appearance. Their compact yet well-proportioned form makes them suitable as bedside tables, occasional tables or small storage pieces in both period and contemporary interiors.

The pair is particularly interesting for the coherence of its materials and detailing. The warm wood, pale parchment, brass hardware and repeated ribbed treatment create a sophisticated composition without relying on excessive ornament. The attribution to Borsani is particularly evident in the attention to proportion, material contrast and the relationship between functional design and refined cabinetmaking.

The night stands are in very good condistion, recentrly restored. The wood surfaces, parchment drawer fronts, brass handles and characteristic ribbed detailing remain clearly legible.
The chest of drawers will also be available and published in the coming days.


Designer: Osvaldo Borsani, attributed
Origin: Italy
Period: Mid-20th Century
Style: Art Deco / Italian Mid-Century
Type: Pair of nightstands / bedside tables
Materials: Teak, maple, parchment and brass
Main feature: Fully ribbed sides
Drawers: One drawer per nightstand, faced in parchment
Storage: Large open compartment with internal shelf
Handles: Brass, original
Base: Solid recessed wooden plinth
Condition: Very good condition, completely restored
Distinctive features: Refined combination of ribbed woodwork, parchment and brass detailing, representative of Italian cabinetmaking of the period