Achille Salvagni Atelier – the collectible design gallery and architectural firm – celebrated the launch of ACHILLE, a new book by ASSOULINE, written by curator and historian Glenn Adamson, at its gallery on Madison Avenue. This new volume celebrates the unique creations of Achille Salvagni, the eponymous Italian architect, artist, and designer. Focused on limited edition design, lighting, and objets d’art, the book presents a comprehensive portrait of a designer whose work bridges ancient craftsmanship and modern imagination with uncommon precision.
In honor of this milestone, Salvagni transformed his gallery into an immersive world where ancient craftsmanship, noble materials, and modern imagination converged through exceptional artistry and display. The new books were elegantly suspended from the coffered ceiling, creating a striking moment of wonder and immersion for guests below. Branded artisan chocolates and signature cocktails elevated the experience, while performers in Manolo Blahnik shoes moved silently throughout the space, engaging with the books by flipping through pages, interacting with guests, and carrying the volumes from room to room.
Written by curator, writer, and historian Glenn Adamson, ACHILLE situates Salvagni within a broader cultural continuum, tracing references from classical Rome and mythology to Art Deco, mid-century Italian design, and contemporary art. His most iconic creations, such as the Spider chandelier introduced in 2016—with its radiating bronze arms and glowing onyx diffusers, part ancient Roman chariot and part modern kinetic sculpture—reflect what has become Salvagni’s signature: a fusion of classicism and modernism.
The Roman-born designer’s iconic pieces possess a timeless quality through his commitment to unparalleled craftsmanship and passion for the world’s most noble materials, including bronze, onyx, marble, parchment, silk, and rare woods. Through close collaboration with master artisans, Salvagni begins with the craft itself rather than imposing form onto material, allowing technique to guide design. This dedication to excellence is seen in each design, down to its hinges, patinas, and structural details.
“ACHILLE is a radiant expression of the creative philosophy that has shaped my entire career,” said Achille Salvagni. “The essence of my work is a harmonious dialogue between time-honored craftsmanship and rich, historic storytelling expressed through a contemporary language, and I am delighted to bring these visions to life through my collaboration with ASSOULINE and the prolific Glenn Adamson. It was an honor to celebrate this milestone with family, friends, collaborators, and the local community in New York– a city that continues to inspire me daily.”
Image credit: Sansho Scott/BFA
