Putrella – Enzo Mari

The Centrotavola, also known as the Putrella, is an iconic design by Enzo Mari for Danese Milano and stands among the purest and most instantly recognisable examples of twentieth-century Italian design. This remarkable piece, presented here in an impressive length of 48 centimetres, is crafted from an industrial H-beam that Mari elevated into a sculptural object. Its power lies in radical simplicity: an unadorned piece of steel recontextualised to reveal an unexpected elegance. The restrained form creates a compelling interplay of mass, line, and shadow, allowing the object to function both as a practical tabletop tray and as an autonomous work of art. In this longer version, the piece gains a pronounced architectural presence, highlighting Mari’s pursuit of designs that are simultaneously utilitarian, conceptual, and aesthetically layered. With its timeless character and strong material identity, the Centrotavola commands attention in any setting and remains a coveted piece for admirers of authentic Italian design.