Tito Agnoli

1931 — 2012

Tito Agnoli, born in Lima, Peru, in 1931, was one of the leading figures in 20th-century Italian design. Coming from an Italian family, he moved to Milan after World War II, where he first studied painting under Mario Sironi before enrolling in architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, graduating in 1959. Early in his career, he worked alongside renowned masters such as Gio Ponti and Carlo De Carli, experiences that shaped his creative vision. Agnoli soon devoted himself to industrial design, developing a refined and functional style characterized by clean lines and structural clarity. From the 1950s onwards, he collaborated with some of Italy’s most prestigious brands—including Arflex, Molteni, Oluce, Lema, and Poltrona Frau—creating both furniture and lighting pieces. Among his best-known works is the “Agnoli” floor lamp for Oluce, considered a milestone in modern lighting design. His creations gained international recognition, with several entering the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Frequently nominated for the Compasso d’Oro award, he also won a gold medal at the Neocon show in Chicago in 1986. Alongside his design work, he taught at the Lissone School of Art, passing on his knowledge to younger generations. Known for a minimalist yet timeless aesthetic, Tito Agnoli left a lasting mark on the world of design. He passed away in Milan in February 2012, leaving behind a respected and influential legacy.