Mid-Century Sideboard with Mirror by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, 1950s

This elegant Italian sideboard or chest of drawers with matching mirror, by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, reflects the refined approach to furniture developed in Cantù during the 1950s, where carefully selected materials were combined with precise cabinetmaking and restrained architectural forms.

The chest is raised on four slender, tapered legs, giving the substantial body a notably light appearance. The four drawers feature projecting, cantilevered fronts, creating a continuous stepped rhythm across the façade. Their generous proportions are emphasized by sculpted brass handles, integrated into the design of the fronts rather than simply applied to the surface.

The drawer fronts are veneered in richly figured walnut arranged in a refined chevron pattern. The continuous repetition of the grain gives the façade a strong sense of movement while maintaining a precise symmetrical composition. The polished finish further enhances the depth and natural variation of the veneer.

A particularly distinctive feature is the Botticino marble top, with its warm tone and delicate veining. The marble introduces a contrasting mineral element to the richness of the walnut and brass. This combination of materials reflects the sophisticated palette associated with higher-end Italian furniture of the period.

The construction is equally considered from the sides, where the slim vertical supports and projecting cabinet body create a clear separation from the floor, further lightening the overall silhouette. The result is a carefully balanced composition between the visual weight of the marble and richly patterned veneer and the slenderness of the supporting structure.

The accompanying mirror was designed as a coherent part of the ensemble. It features a large shaped mirror with softly rounded corners, framed on either side by slender, tapered wooden elements. Small brass details complete the structure, repeating the materials and finishes of the chest and reinforcing the visual unity of the set.

Together, the chest and mirror form a particularly elegant example of Italian Mid-Century furniture, combining geometric proportions, rich woodwork and a restrained use of precious materials with the characteristic craftsmanship of the Cantù tradition.

The set is in very good vintage condition. The chest has recently been polished with shellac, restoring depth and luminosity to the original wood finish while preserving the natural character and signs of age of the piece.


Manufacturer: La Permanente Mobili Cantù
Period: 1950s
Origin: Italy
Style: Italian Mid-Century
Type: Chest of drawers with matching mirror
Materials: Walnut veneer, Botticino marble, brass and mirror glass
Chest: Four cantilevered drawers, geometric chevron veneer, sculpted brass handles, tapered legs
Top: Botticino marble
Mirror: Shaped mirror with rounded corners, tapered wooden side elements and brass details
Finish: Recently polished with shellac
Condition: Very good vintage condition with minor signs of age