Ettore Sottsass for Cleto Munari gold, onyx and diamonds ring

Ettore Sottsass (1917–2007) was a pioneering Italian architect and designer, celebrated for his bold use of color, geometric forms, and a playful approach that challenged conventional design norms. In the early 1980s, he collaborated with fellow Italian designer Cleto Munari to create a groundbreaking jewelry collection that merged architectural concepts with wearable art.

Their partnership began in 1972 and blossomed into a decade-long collaboration, resulting in limited-edition pieces that redefined jewelry design. Notable creations include the 1985 ‘Roof’ ring, inspired by architectural rooftops, and the 2002 ‘Arches’ ring from the ‘La Seduzione’ series, reflecting Brunelleschi’s dome of Florence Cathedral. These pieces exemplify Sottsass’s ability to translate architectural elements into intricate jewelry designs.

The collaboration between Sottsass and Munari is documented in the book Jewelry by Architects (1988) by Barbara Radice, Sottsass’s wife. Their work continues to influence contemporary design, showcasing the seamless fusion of architecture and jewelry.

Credit: Picture Giuseppe Pino (Mondadori Publishers)