'Nucleo' by Francesco Perini

Gallery FUMI is delighted to present ‘Nucleo’, the first solo exhibition by Francesco Perini at the gallery’s Mayfair location, celebrating twelve years of collaboration. Born in the picturesque region of Arezzo near Florence, Perini’s work is deeply rooted in the noble traditions of Tuscan craftsmanship. His journey began in the 1980s when his carpentry workshop garnered acclaim for its refined marquetry and sophisticated flooring. Over the years, this heritage evolved into a distinctive personal vision for collectable design works. The new series Nucleo, meaning ‘nucleus' in Italian, refers to the very essence of Perini’s practice, which is described as an admiration of his natural surroundings. In the works, Perini reinterprets his renowned ‘Incontro’ design with a fresh perspective, referring to the Desert Rose crystallisation as a key influence - a naturally occurring formation of crystallised minerals resulting from hundreds of years of growth in arid desert regions. Its name speaks to the petal-like, circular patterns which are formed around sand grains trapped at its centre, and is translated through Perini’s expertise in marquetry. Desert Rose crystal formations symbolise strength and resistance due to their ability to withstand harsh conditions over centuries. The beauty of nature’s process is mirrored in Perini’s works, with magnificent 100-year-old oak wood chosen as his canvas. Perini’s inlaid material is locally sourced, such as Fiori di Bosco marble - a soft grey marble renowned for its delicate veining of colour. The new works will include a dining table, side tables, a coffee table, a bench and a console, and, for the first time, a wall mounted cabinet. Each work is a testament to his skill, and is both timeless and contemporary. Perini’s works have been placed in prestigious residences and numerous international exhibitions, including the PAD Art + Design in London, FOG Design + Art in San Francisco, and Design Miami. He is represented by Gallery FUMI internationally.